Where's Your Dream Home?

When you think of your dream home, what do you see? Each of us has a vision of what it will be, but getting as close to that vision as possible is a practical, step-by-step process that begins with finding a REALTOR. A REALTOR is your best ally throughout the home-buying process. He or she can provide expert advice and help you determine how much you can afford, what kind of home you can buy in that price range and where it may be located. You have no doubt heard the phrase 'location, location, location." It really is the most important factor in making any real estate purchase. To find the right location, you must think of where you want to live both in broad terms and in detail. Let's begin with the broad terms. Where do you want to live? Urban. Urban communities offer the broadest range of housing types, but generally at higher prices than similar-sized homes in non-urban locations. Suburb. The suburbs are typically made up of newer neighbourhoods, schools and shopping centres. Prices may or may not be lower than those of the central city, but you may often get more square footage, larger rooms and bigger lots. Smaller towns and cities. A lower-paced lifestyle and lower taxes and housing prices are often big draws to Manitoba's smaller communities. There are generally fewer types of homes available and the number for sale could be limited. Rural. A stream flowing over a few acres sounds appealing and your housing budget will often buy you more in a rural setting than other location. Features Once you have considered the broader locations, it's time to think about features you need and want in a home. Prepare a shopping list: how many bedrooms? How many bathrooms? One car garage or two? Large backyard or small? Now for the more detailed location considerations. Comparing homes and locations. Now you want to match the type of home you would like with a more specific location. Start reading the real estate ads in local newspapers and REALTOR-produced publications. These ads will give you an idea of the communities that best match your criteria for homes and locations. Drive through the communities that are likely candidates. Check out the types of homes available, how well the neighbourhoods are maintained, availability of schools and shopping, recreational and religious facilities. Be aware of drawbacks: highway noise, train tracks, airports, large industrial or manufacturing centres. Drive through the neighbourhoods at different times of the day. Attend open houses in the areas you are exploring. Look at different home types. You will begin to understand which best suit your needs and which are in your price range. Open houses also provide an excellent chance to meet the REALTORS hosting the events. In fact, it's likely you may select your REALTOR there, since REALTORS are familiar with the areas in which they work and can answer many of the questions you have developed during your search.