Home buying is an exciting process and with the help of an experienced real estate agent, the process can be smooth and empowering. There are many factors to consider when searching for a home, and it is important to have a clear idea of what you are looking for before the search begins. Informed by decades of experience navigating the
Chandler real estate market, Stephanie Mitchell has outlined eight of the most important factors to consider when searching for your dream home.
Size
The size of your home will impact everything from your utility costs to your ability to entertain guests. If you have a large family, more bedrooms and bathrooms would be prudent. If you entertain often, you'll want a spacious kitchen and living room. And if you're looking for a luxurious lifestyle, you may want a sprawling estate with acres of land. Regardless of your needs, a home’s footprint is an important consideration.
Neighborhood
Finding a neighborhood that you'll feel comfortable in and that meets your needs is important. A great way to get a sense of a neighborhood is to attend community events. Local festivals, street fairs, and farmers' markets are all good opportunities to meet your neighbors and get to know the area. You could also get involved in community volunteer activities.
Explore how well the homes in the area are maintained. This is an indicator of both the pride that residents take in their homes and the quality of life in the neighborhood. If you're searching for a luxury home in Chandler, visit the area at different times and days to determine what traffic and noise levels are like.
Location
One of the most important things to consider when searching for a home is its location. After all, your Chandler real estate is more than just a physical structure — it's also part of a larger community. While the neighborhood you live in can have a big impact on your day-to-day life, also be sure to explore its proximity to schools, shopping, and work.
Yard size
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A large yard means more space for entertaining guests, gardening, and enjoying the outdoors. It also provides an extra measure of privacy and can be a selling point if you decide to put your home on the market in the future. Further, a large yard lets you add features such as a pool or patio, which can increase the value of your home. On the other hand, if you’re looking to downsize or don’t have the time to invest in a big yard’s upkeep, then a smaller space will suit you best.
Special features
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When searching for Chandler Real Estate, make a list of your needs and wants. While some features are more essential than others, there are some luxury items that make a home special and unique. Here are a few things to look for when searching for your dream home:
- Gourmet kitchen. If you love to cook, entertain, or have a large family then a luxurious kitchen complete with top-of-the-line appliances is a must-have.
- Spacious master bedroom. You should feel like royalty in your own bedroom so find one that's spacious and has plenty of storage.
- Home office. With more people working from home these days, a dedicated workspace is a valuable asset.
Of course, every homebuyer's needs are different. But if you're looking for something extra special in your next home, be sure to keep an eye out for those features.
Access to public transportation
An important factor to consider is whether the property has easy access to
public transportation. If you live in a city, being able to hop on a bus or train can make getting around easy. You'll save money on gas, and you won't have to worry about parking. In addition, being close to public transportation can be an asset if you later decide to sell your home because buyers appreciate the nearby convenience.
Quality of schools
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Ensuring that your children are getting a quality education is vital. To explore the schools in a certain area, use an online resource like
GreatSchools.org. It provides detailed information about test scores, teacher experience, and other important factors. Also talk to parents whose children are enrolled in schools near the area of your home search. They can give you a firsthand account of their experience.
Proximity to important amenities
There are plenty of great neighborhoods in Chandler that are near schools, shopping, and business. Some luxury townhomes in urban areas are often very close to grocery stores, coffee shops, and other conveniences. And in the suburban areas, many homes are within walking distance of schools and parks. Before making an offer on a property, make sure that it’s not a long commute from the school or your office.
There are a lot of factors to consider — location, price, size, and style are just a few. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start.
Stephanie Mitchell & John Gordon can help. Call with your real estate questions today.