We all have those dreams of a big, Pinterest-worthy kitchen, a neatly landscaped backyard, and luxurious bathrooms, all sweetened with hardwood floors and perfect natural lighting.
The dream house really is a dream, but it can become your reality if you’re willing to put in the time, money, and effort.
If you dream of owning your own home one day soon, there are some important steps you need to take, some years in advance and some while you’re in the middle of the process. If homeownership is part of your plans, here are some tips.
Start Saving Early
A house is a big investment, and it’s going to require a savings plan. Some people start saving as much as ten years in advance, but this will all depend on your budget, income and saving plan.
Once you decide that you want to buy your dream home, sit down with a pen, a piece of paper and a plan in your head.
Consider all your expenses, what you earn each month, how much you can afford to put away for a house, as well as how much you’d like to spend and when. You can look online or hire a financial planner to help you.
Shop Around
Of course, when you start house hunting, you need to be prepared for a long journey. Rushing the home-buying process is likely to only end in disappointment.
Instead, be willing to keep looking until you find the perfect home or something you’d be able to move into your dream house.
There are other ways you can shop around too. For example, make sure you get the best quote on a home loan, and you can even get different quotes on the best home warranty to offer you and your home the protection you need.
Know What You Want
Before you even start looking, make sure you know what it is you want and need out of a home, and make a list. This list can be filled with practical points such as how many bedrooms you need, as well as finer details like marble kitchen countertops.
Consider your lifestyle and budget, as well as the size of your family and any future plans you may have. When it comes to design, think about your ideal look. If you’re not sure what you like, spend some time looking at home design websites for inspiration.
Embrace Home Renovation
Finally, remember that when you’re buying, the home you buy doesn’t necessarily have to tick every single box, since you’ll have the option of renovating. This means that certain elements can be moulded and changed to fit your needs.
For instance, remodeling the basement and attic can create more living space. Although installing drywall, flooring, insulation, and lighting may be expensive, your home’s value can increase if these areas are converted into practical and enjoyable spaces like playrooms, home offices, hobby rooms, gyms, viewing decks, and recreation areas with bars and entertainment systems.
If you want even more convenience, install an upflush toilet in the basement, which is less expensive because it does not require traditional plumbing installation. Making these spaces more functional and enjoyable to use can be a great way to make the most of your home.
Home improvement can be affordable too if you plan carefully and work smart. Consider this possibility while you’re looking for a home.
You might even want to get in a designer to check your ideas before settling and buying a home – just to be sure that your plans are plausible and compatible with the existing structure.
