Did you know that 32% of potential homebuyers are first time owners? While this may seem surprising at first, it makes sense once you think about it. Although finding new homes that are right for you can be daunting, the search itself is getting easier. An estimated 92% of people are using the Internet to look for a house for sale. The Internet gives us thousands of options in our price range and relative location. But there are some drawbacks to using the Internet to search for a home; all of those results can get overwhelming fast. For example, the typical buyer who does not use the Internet searches for just five weeks and visits five homes. The buyer who uses the Internet searches for 10 weeks and visits 10 homes. You should definitely see as many homes as possible — you just don’t want to be searching forever. This is why a realtor might be a good option, especially if you’re on the hunt for those elusive luxury townhomes. Luxury townhomes in desirable locations can be difficult to find, but with the help of the Internet and a realtor, you should be able to find homes for sale that fit what you want and need. Firstly, however, you should make a list of what is important to you. Knowing what you want ahead of time will make your search much easier.
Location, Location, Location
During your hunt for luxury townhomes, keep in mind how important location is to you. The most important places young parents or future parents will want to keep in mind are their workplaces and their children’s schools. Now, a commute is not always something you can help, but you do want to be fairly close to work so that you don’t spend all day in a traffic jam. Depending on where you work, however, many luxury townhomes are centrally located. The issue of school is one you’ll really want to pay attention to. Some townhomes are in neighborhoods so close to school that the kids can walk there. While this is charming and convenient, you’ll really want to look at your child’s school district. A good school district isn’t just about where your child attend school for elementary school, but where they go to middle and high school as well. High school in particular can greatly impact your child’s future.
Renovations — Yes Or No?
Now, even luxury townhomes age after a certain period of time. All homes will need renovations sooner or later. The question is whether or not you want to deal with those renovations. Some renovations are purely cosmetic. For example, a bathroom may be terribly out of date, or a kitchen may have floors that you don’t particularly like. These kinds of renovations can technically wait. That is, they don’t affect a home’s “performance”. Other renovations are more serious. Say a home needs new electrical wiring or plumbing repairs — these are practical renovations, and some need to be tended to before the new owners even move in. Most renovations are doable, but what you’re will to do needs to be decided before you go house hunting. New homebuyers typically don’t want to deal with renovations and problems with plumbing and electricity, at 34% in a recent poll. Experienced buyers, on the other hand, are more concerned with price. In this case, it’s a matter of taste and what amount of effort you’re willing to put in.
New Home, Or Old?
New constructions are controversial. Naturally, they come with the advantages of requiring fewer renovations, or indeed none at all. Some buyers, however, like the idea and charm that comes with older homes. Older homes do have charisma — but keep in mind that they will involve more work. This may not be the best idea for newer buyers, especially those with children. With that being said — keep an open mind and ask your realtor for tips. With the right attitude, you can’t go wrong.
