Real Estate Matters
By Elisa Jo Eagan
While the number of bedrooms and the size of the backyard are both important when searching for a home, location should not be overlooked. In fact, it is often said that in buying real estate and choosing your place to call home, the most important factors are location, location, and location! Here are a few things to keep in mind to help you find the perfect location and property for you.
Neighborhood
Whether you seek peace and quiet surrounded by acres of land, being closer to the ocean, or the hustle and bustle of city nightlife, scoping out what a neighborhood offers will make you happier in the long run. Unfortunately, neighbors are non-negotiable, unless you purchase your own remote private island.
Property Taxes
Property taxes play a large role in a monthly budget. While you have little control over mandated costs, it is best to consider the tax history of a prospective community before you make a home purchase.
School District
Certainly, if you are looking for a location to raise a family, the quality of the school district would most likely be your top priority. If you don’t have school-age children, the school district may not seem like an important factor at first glance. But regardless of your current needs, the rating of the school district can dramatically impact a home’s market value. How much is that beautiful home worth if it’s located in an underperforming school district?
Crime Rates
The safety of your neighborhood impacts everything from your happiness and security, to your home’s resale value. Before you make a move, take advantage of the numerous online tools available that can shed light on crime rates. Be aware of how safe your prospective community is.
Transportation
If you move somewhere that pushes your commute to over an hour, you will likely get pretty tired of the location fairly quickly. When commute time is important, consider a location where highway access or public transportation are nearby.
Geography
Your home’s geographic location will have a huge impact on how you live. Think about factors like the climate, landscape and environmental changes that will affect you down the line.
Only you can decide what location is best for you. It may take quite a bit of research, time, and discernment. Making any move is always a leap of faith for sure.
With hugs, love and warm regards.
For real estate information and advice, contact Elisa Jo Eagan, the “Real Estate Godmother,” at 609-703-0432. Learn more at www.TheRealEstateGodmother.com.
For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact Elisa Jo Eagan “The Real Estate Godmother” (609)703-0432 and Remember…”There’s No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!”
