Lifestyle Shopping

Now that you have thought about the type of home you would like to buy, consider some important criteria that can make a home more or less attractive. Factors to consider include:

* The commute to work: How quickly can you get to and from work? How much traffic will you encounter during the prime commuting hours on the weekdays or around shopping areas and sporting events on the weekends? Do you need access to public transportation?
* School districts: If you have school-age children or are planning to have children, then consider the proximity of local public and private schools.
* Access to shopping: How accessible is the nearest grocery store? How close are prime shopping areas?
* Utilities: Is there an adequate supply of water and electric power? Are there gas lines available? And don't forget access to cable or high-speed Internet!
* Public safety: How close are police and fire departments? How are the emergency medical services? Is distance to the nearest hospital important to you?
* Parking: What is the parking situation? What size garage do you want? Do you have space to accommodate guest parking? Is street parking available?
* Recreation Areas: Do you have recreational interests to factor into your home search? How close is the nearest park, lake, beach, or ski slope? If you are moving to a new community, you may want to check out playgrounds and fitness centers.

All of these factors contribute to a quality of life that will affect your enjoyment of your new home. Consider the lifestyle you want and the area amenities that are important to you. The perfect house in a neighborhood that doesn't suit you will never feel like home.