Which home is right for you?

Buying a home is one of the most important life decisions you will make—whether it’s your first or fifth. And buying that home comes with a host of choices that are dependent on both your current situation and how that situation is likely to change during the time you live in your new home.

Here’s our take on the key things you need to consider in the buying process:

Location, location, location
As any real estate agent will tell you, location is key...but that doesn’t just go for selling your home...it applies equally to buying one, too. Do you want to live in the city, the suburbs or out in the countryside? Generally speaking, the further from the city you move, the newer the home and the more bang you get for your buck. On the other hand, if you work in the city, prepare for ever increasing commute times and costs. Living in the city will keep you nearer to work, but your home will likely be older, smaller and cost more.

Style of home
Do you demand the privacy of a detached home, or an easier to upkeep (no snow removal grass cutting or landscaping) condo. Bungalow or multi-storey? Older people may prefer the level ground of a bungalow or low-level condo, but single family homes see far more appreciation in value than any other construction type.

On the inside
Usually, buying a property with less than three bedrooms is unadvisable, unless you’re an older couple buying a retirement home, or a single person who wishes to remain that way. Sometimes, a two bedroomed property is acceptable if there’s room to add an additional bedroom should the need arise. The same goes for bathrooms, too. Generally, one full bathroom and a powder room is the minimum.

Finally, check out the local area for amenities that are important to you, such as schools, parks, a library, perhaps. It’s no good buying the home of your dreams if you don’t like the area it’s in.

And now that you’re happily cocooned in your new home, make sure you have the coordinates of a quality Montreal general contractor close at hand. Because whether you need to make repairs to an older home or change the look of your new one, it’s vital that the work carried out adds value to the most important purchase you will ever make.

http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/buho/hostst/index.cfm