Buying your very first home is a huge milestone, a great achievement and one of the most exciting things that will happen in your life. However, it can also be pretty stressful. There’s a lot to manage, plenty of things you’ll be unsure of and so many decisions to make that you’ll end up dizzy. The very first (and the biggest) of these decisions is which home you’ll choose to buy. Knowing which home is right for you is tough and you might be afraid to make the wrong decision and regret it later. That’s why we’ve rounded up a few tips to help you make sure you pick right. 

1. Pick the Area

Something that might be even more important than the home itself is the area you choose to live in. The city you settle down in will determine much about your lifestyle: how busy you are, how much you travel, how close you are to friends and family, how safe you feel, and more. 

You might be interested in Texas real estate for a small Southern town, or perhaps a home in a big city. However, the city or area you live in might have been decided for you by a job offer or a place at a college.

2. Get to Know the Neighbourhood

Your neighbourhood is the microcosm of where you’ll live your life and can impact you even more than the larger city or area you live in. Once you’ve looked at a home you like, be sure to take a look around the neighbourhood too, before making a final decision.

There are a few different factors to consider when scoping out a neighbourhood, such as schools, parks, nearby stores, coffee shops and even gyms. Consider safety and proximity to the places you’ll be frequenting. 

3. Consider Size and Style

There are many styles and types of homes to choose from, each catering to different needs and personalities.

You might have a big family and want to purchase a townhouse with a yard and a pool. On the other hand, a young, married couple might be happy with a small apartment that’s just big enough for their needs.

Another factor to take into account is the style of the home you’re buying. Some buildings are older and built with a more traditional design style. Newer buildings could feature a more modern finishing, an industrial look, or feature more concrete than wood. 

4. Budget Carefully

Sticking to a budget when buying or renovating can be tricky, but it’s crucial for your overall financial wellbeing. Make sure to assess what you can afford beforehand and consider all aspects of the purchase.

This will include things like the down payment, the monthly repayments, transfer fees and other legal admin, home insurance, savings for maintenance, any renovations or repairs that need to be done, and even more.

Once you’re secure on your budget, check in with yourself regularly to ensure you’re not overspending in any areas, especially when it comes time to fix up and furnish your home.