Don’t Forget These 4 Key Factors for Your Next Home Location
Home location plays a major role in your life. Property taxes, school districts, and the cost of living are standard details that go into choosing the best-fit location. But what other factors could you be forgetting? Here are four home location components that deserve a spot on your house-hunting priorities list.
1. Daily commutes and ease of getting around
A daily commute can directly impact your quality of life. It tends to dictate what time you wake up, how much free time you have after work, and your daily stress levels. Do some dry runs to see what your new commute would be like during your travel times. And if you don’t have the ability to physically check out the commute, most online map programs or mobile apps will show you traffic volumes and estimated travel times in real time so you can estimate your morning and evening drive lengths.
2. Walkability and public transportation options
Around-the-corner shopping, the ability to walk to work, and accessible public transit can be desirable for some but a nonfactor for others. Consider everything from your travel preferences to your shopping habits. Do you enjoy being able to stretch your legs as you run your errands, or do you prefer the convenience of taking your car? Looking at how you shop now will make you more aware of the options to look for in your new locale.
You can check out an area’s walkability by visiting the Walk Score website, which also offers assessments on how easy it is to get around on bike or via public transit.
3. Square footage, lot size, and privacy
How much house you can afford is going to change based on location. A willingness to live in a distant suburb most often translates into more square footage on a larger lot. Most people are going to know what they want in lot size, but when house hunting, it’s all about priorities. Make a list of your must-haves, and have your partner make one too. You may be surprised at what you’re unwilling to sacrifice in exchange for that extra half bath.
4. Social life and cultural amenities
A major draw to city life is an abundance of activities. However, some suburbs boast city-like activities on a smaller scale, or you might find that the occasional city trip is enough. Think about how you spend your weekends now, where and how often you eat out, and where your social circle is. Even if you’re moving to a different side of the country, you’re likely to carry those same habits and preferences with you.