Is moving house one of your New Year's Resolutions? If you feel that you've outgrown your space and it's time to move on then read on to discover some insider tips on deciding on your dream home and getting yourself move-ready.
Choosing a new home is probably the most important and fun part of the whole moving process. Spending hours online going through property sites allows your imagination to soar as you picture yourself living your best life in your dream home.
Then of course comes the reality of viewing your selected properties, but more of that later. How do you go about deciding on the right property for you?
Most lifestyle bloggers and real estate moguls will tell you that area is key, so spend your money on finding somewhere in the right location, rather than concentrating on the house. If you're very lucky you'll get just the right balance of both but in any case start looking at exactly the right spot for you and work outwards from there.
If you're thinking of moving to a new area then spend some time doing research and visiting the town, city or village to figure out which part has the facilities that you need most. Make a list of your must-haves from a local shop to being in walking distance of a train or bus stop.
Get your name on the list of real estate agents, such a Shape Real Estate to make sure you're up to date with anything that comes on the market. Telling your agent your exact needs will help them narrow down the list of available properties for you.
Before you decide to go and view any properties, take a look either physically or online around the area. What's in walking distance, do you need to consider schools or transport? Then write down a checklist of things you want to see in your potential new home such as a modern heating system, adequate parking and so on.
Don't be afraid to have a good look around the property when you're there. While you certainly don't need to be looking in any private drawers or wardrobes, there's no harm in putting your head up the chimney to see if it's blocked or open. Similarly don't be afraid to ask your agent any questions, no matter how basic they might sound. Your agent will have done his or her research and be able to answer questions about the neighbourhood as well as questions about the specific property.
Moving house is an exciting, daunting and somewhat stressful experience. Whether you're planning on buying or renting getting the right area for you and your family is paramount.
The best thing you can do is to carry out as much research as possible about the area you're planning to move to and spend some time online looking at how much properties in that neighbourhood have been sold/let for in the last six to twelve months. Then go in and negotiate hard to get the keys to your dream home.