There are few things more exciting than moving house. It’s usually our most costly purchase and our greatest asset. There are usually two major challenges to face: the disruption involved in moving, and choosing the right home in the first place. This article discusses four questions everyone should ask themself before choosing a new apartment as a future home.
1. What is the area like?
The ideal home should have a nearby hospital, good healthcare, and a fire station. When looking at apartments, make sure that the proximity of these institutions is guaranteed. If you are looking for convenient apartments in DC, check out the local entertainment and nightlife, or areas of historical interest as there are many to be found here.
Keep in mind that every living area offers something different, so try to find the one that suits your needs best. Some people will want to check if the roads are good for cyclists, some others might want to have a lot of parks for the kids to play in. It’s important to have quick access to local shops as well, as it’s a real disadvantage having to travel long distances for small grocery items.
If there is a high turnover of houses in your chosen area, try and find out what the issue is. Investigate the local crime rate too. When future development is planned, check if it’s good things like local schools and hospitals that increase the value of the area, or cheap housing or factories that may achieve the opposite.
2. Is it good for the family?
It is absolutely essential that the whole family is included in the decision-making process, and onboard with the final choice. Some people move to be nearer their relatives, particularly if there are new grandchildren or elderly parents to care for.
Check out the local schools, because the kids will be there for a long time. It’s important that they will be happy and receive a good education. Whilst it might be fun for empty nesters to move into the middle of nowhere, it may mean that precious loved ones are less likely to visit.
3. What about the financial factors?
People need to make sure their budgets can afford the chosen apartment. Longer-term there may be more children at home, so check if your budget could cope with building an extension if it was needed. In this case, check that the apartment and garden possess the space and the legal option to do this.
Some new homes need work and renovation. That’s great for anyone who wants the challenge, or who may resell it for a profit later on. Others may prefer homes that are already as they are desired to be – particularly if there are young children involved.
4. Will it be good for work?
When moving closer to work, there is the option of cycling to save money. Short car journeys save on fuel and reduce the wear and tear on the vehicle. People planning to commute by train should check out the local connections.
Moving house is like marriage – do it in haste and repent at leisure. Once people finally move, they want to put down their roots. The last thing they will want is to move again because they made a bad choice. It’s essential to fully research the area in advance, and ensure the whole family will be happy there. Have the financial aspects fully covered, including the work location? Once all these things have been considered, all that’s left is to find an apartment with that certain ‘something’. Then everything will be put in place for gaining many happy years and memories together.
