What Will Your Next House Look Like? 10 Factors to Consider

Spring is such an exciting season for real estate professionals! New and current homeowners are gearing up to buy, and sellers are getting ready to cash in on their investment, and our TEAM is excited to help all clients navigate this process. However, for those who plan on making a purchase, it’s important to come in with a good idea about what you are looking for in your next house. While some buyers may be downsizing, others are looking for more space to accommodate a growing family or changing needs. Whatever the story may be, determining your wants and needs, along with obtaining your pre-approval for financing and securing a REALTOR® that works well with you are the first steps to take on this exciting journey into home ownership. 

Here are 10 important factors to consider when determining what your next house looks like:

• Features You Have Always Wanted

A pool, sunroom, media room, garage, or acreage are all great features that homeowners enjoy.

• Your Desired Neighbourhood or Community

Are you looking for something in rural areas, or do you prefer city living? Ottawa has a wealth of different communities for you to choose from.

• Square Footage

If you have a growing family that you are cramping into 1200 square feet, you may be looking to upsize into something that can accommodate everyone comfortably.

• Type of Home

Ottawa has a multitude of different types of home throughout each community, including single family detached, semi-detached, condominiums,  townhouses, and multi-family residences to meet the unique needs of our diverse population.

• New Build or Resale

Do you want something that needs some work, with older bones, or are you looking for something new or custom? New builds are back on track and many outlying communities are seeing substantial growth!

• A Layout to Love

If you have been cooped up in a small home feeling isolated in separate rooms, you may desire a home that is more open concept. Alternatively, if some of you have been working from home or doing online-learning, some more divided spaces may be the better solution.

• Affordability

You may be looking for a home that lowers your monthly expenses, or one that allows you to free up some home equity for future plans.

• Amenities In The Area

For families with children, you may want to research schools within a certain area, or for those who rely on public transportation, finding a location close to transit routes, grocery stores, pharmacies and restaurants may be a feature you desire.

• Lot Size

Are you looking for acreage, or is a patio or balcony all that you require. For those looking for more land, a rural setting may have more accommodating options available to you.

• Home Maintenance

If you are thinking of relocating because your humble abode requires too much maintenance throughout the year, a condominium may be something that would fit your lifestyle better. Condominiums generally cover all outdoor maintenance, and are turn-key, allowing the homeowner to come and go as they please. 

Finding your dream home will be no easy feat, but planning ahead and knowing what you want will help you get into a home that feels right for you. Use these 10 starting points to narrow down your search, and join forces with your REALTOR® on your house hunting venture. With the resources of a full-service brokerage available to you, the adventure that awaits will be one that you will thoroughly enjoy.