Timothy E. Lockhart - YOU HAVE OPTIONS: YOUR GUIDE TO AVOIDING FORECLOSURE

plumbing systems in addition to electrical work, water damage or mold, infestations requiring extermination, as well as doors and windows.

Step 4: Choose a Location

Location, location, location! You probably hear that term in real estate a lot. This term can mean several different things, but here I’m referring to the fact that one of the most important choices someone can make when determining which home to purchase is location. You’ll need to factor in the area of the city, the neighborhood, the school district, proximity to important amenities, the commute to work, crime statistics, noise, neighbors, parking, traffic, etc. There is plenty to consider when thinking about location. Don’t forget that every property has its own specifics related to water supply, sanitation, and market access, which can either increase or decrease the value of the property. Finally, really picture yourself and your family both inside the home and outside it, in the area. Can you see yourselves living there? Do you get a positive vibe, or a negative vibe? These are all things to consider when choosing a location.

Step 5: Choose a Home Design

When you’ve determined such items as price range, needs vs. wants, and location, don’t forget to add home design to the list. I’m not talking about interior design or décor, which are all things that can be modified, upgraded, or even completely renovated in time. Rather, I’m talking about the type of home — such as a condo, a townhouse, a bungalow, a two-story home, etc., as well as big-ticket items like a garage, yard, basement (finished or unfinished), dining room, staircases, where the bathrooms are located in relation to the bedrooms, etc. In other words, how was the home architecturally designed?

Design matters! You need to determine the right type of home

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