You may not find your dream home right away. According to some studies, it takes an average of 10 weeks for homebuyers to find exactly what they’re looking for. When you're deciding what type of home is right for you, it’s helpful to think long-term. Try to ensure that the home you buy is suited to your current needs as well as your future plans. It’s also worth thinking about how the home you want to buy can be resold later or serve as a source of income in the future. The home you buy now doesn’t have to be your dream home for life, but it should suit your immediate needs with an eye towards future needs.
Types of Properties
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Villas
– If you’re searching for privacy and independence, buying a single-family residence might be the right choice for you. Decide whether you want a new home, a previously owned home or a fixer-upper. If you buy a newly built villa, consider the cost of potential upgrades and landscaping, which aren't usually included in the base price. You might be better off with a previously owned home in good repair. A fixer-upper, on the other hand, may allow you to purchase more home for your money. Your house will quickly increase in value as you put work into it — as long as you're willing to invest the time and money required to do the job right.
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Apartments
– When you live in an apartment, the floorplan is usually a lot smaller than that of a house, thus more cost effective when it comes to bills and rent. Another benefit is that with nearly all apartments, maintenance is covered and taken care of by the landlord, making one less major worry for you when that leaky pipe finally splits. If you’re still undecided, take into consideration that living in an apartment complex usually brings access to a large array of amenities that you might not get with a villa. This potentially includes things like a common room, swimming pool, communal barbeques, a gym, covered parking, and a security system.
Use real estate websites to see rough estimates of individual property values. A real estate agent can provide you with information about different areas and relative values of similar homes, which can be helpful as you decide what your offer should be. When you finally make your offer for a home, your research may pay off by helping you negotiate a better deal.
