There are inevitably going to be obstacles when trying to buy a house. Limits and problems and numerous other constraints can be discouraging. The key is accepting what is outside of your control and learning to work with what you can in order to get the best house possible.
Location Restrictions
The location of your new home is probably the biggest decision you have to initially make. And right off the bat, it can sometimes render your plan for a dream home dead in the water. Sometimes, the perfect house is in a less-than-ideal area; sometimes, a perfect area has nothing but overpriced homes outside of your budget. You’re going to have to work with what you’ve got. If your new home is being dictated by the location (e.g., you’re moving for work) then you can begin there. Look around often and thoroughly. Use both physical and online resources to find new neighborhoods and houses to check out.
Your Budget
Your budget is the most important factor when buying real estate. You’re going to need to get preapproved for a mortgage by a bank before you ever even show up to an open house. That means you’re going to already know what your price range is. No matter how much you’d like to maybe change it, the fact of the matter is that you’re going to need to go with what you and the bank have agreed on. Be realistic about your payments and your income. The hardest decision to make is when something is just barely outside of your budget – is it worth the financial risk? Will you have promotions or other sources of income coming up? Consider carefully.
Family Situation
The condition of you and your family, if one is involved, will also need to be taken into account. Kids make a huge difference to your decision. Is there a good school nearby? Is the neighborhood safe? Is the home and yard big enough for kids to grow and play in? Even if kids are not involved, having a partner or even just a pet is going to make an important difference. Even if you aren’t living with anyone currently, could that change within a few years?
Planning is very important when buying a house. But so is flexibility. Be aware of not only the conditions and factors that inform your side of things but be aware of the market at large as well. Don’t be taken by surprise.
Check out this article on how to find an energy efficient home!