Home buying is difficult whether you know the area or not. If you're leaving a location you're used to, it can be overwhelming to decide on a new place to live. There are some questions you can ask to determine your priorities and whether a new location is a good fit. Here are some to begin with:
For many, the weather has a huge impact on quality of life. Whether your choice is based on personal preference or physical comfort, it's a good idea to take the local climate into consideration when thinking about a new place to live. Check out weather reports from local news outlets and research historical data like average rain, snowfall and temperatures throughout the year. This knowledge will help you decide how comfortable you'll be in a new location.
Don't stop thinking about your budget after you make your home purchase. The property itself is just the beginning of a new financial life. Knowing the cost of living in a new area will help you determine whether it's affordable to live there long-term. Research local property taxes, mortgage rates and nearby rent prices. Other factors like groceries, entertainment, utilities, gas and transportation costs will also affect your ongoing budget.
While it covers a wide variety of features, the infrastructure of a new area is important to become familiar with before you choose to live there. Infrastructure includes things like public transportation, city planning, schools, hospitals and other emergency services. To find out more about transportation, consult bus or train route maps and schedules. Find out how close your new home will be to healthcare services, basic amenities and other key features like major highways or busy streets. All of these details combine to create a living experience, and the more you know, the clearer your deciison will be.
Since 1990 I've been happily helping people just like you realize their dream of home ownership, and loving every minute of it! I'm an educator by heart, so you won't feel overwhelmed with the whole process. I'll be there with you every step of the way and more! I've been where you are now more than once and I understand all the emotions and apprehensions that come with a move. If you're relocating, I will make sure you have all the information about neighborhoods, schools and services that are important to you. I am detail oriented and I have a strong background in research. I have my BA in Economics from Lewis & Clark College, and graduate studies in Counseling Psychology at St. Martin's University. I'm a graduate of the Masters Sales Academy for Realtors. I've also been an instructor for new real estate agents. I've been recognized with the National Sales Award "The Dozen" for being in the Top 5% of all Realtors & the local Realtors Thurston County Star Agent Award.
