Real Estate Special Section Summer 2022
3 . Create a list . Or create a few lists . Must-haves versus wish lists are critical , especially if you ’ re buying a home with someone else . What do you consider a non-negotiable ? For you it may be a certain number of bedrooms or bathrooms . For someone else it may be a big yard . Do you dream of owning a home with a pool ? Writing out the specifics not only helps you identify what is important to you and your family , it also helps your real estate agent determine what is on the market that fits those needs and wants .
4 . Photos may be deceiving . Home photos , if done right , are often taken at the very best angle , in the best light , and sometimes with retouching . Photos of problem areas will not be posted , so keep an open mind when you find something online that you like . Room sizes may appear quite larger in a photo than in person — that ’ s why it ’ s important to work with your real estate agent to visit any home that may have potential . Your agent might also show you homes that may not have photographed well but are exactly what you ’ re looking for . Don ’ t be fooled by a real estate catfish !
5 . Be open-minded and on your toes . There will likely be several buyers vying for a similar home in the same market as you . If you think you ’ ve found the perfect home , alert your real estate agent as soon as possible to go see it in person . Being quick , but smart , could help you secure the home of your dreams in a low-inventory market . If you do get outbid by another buyer , be patient — something is sure to come along ! ■
PATIO COMMUNITIES OFFER MORE THAN JUST PATIOS
Patio homes , also known as carriage homes or garden homes , have been gaining popularity among both firsttime homebuyers and empty nesters for the growing appeal of single-story , low-maintenance living . There are major differences between owning a single-family home and a patio home , but those differences could be exactly what you are looking for in a new home that ’ s right for you . Whether you are looking to downsize , or to purchase your first home , it ’ s helpful to know what makes patio homes so attractive to buyers .
Single-family homes provide owners with a sense of privacy — with no shared walls , floors , or yards . This varies greatly from the offerings of a patio home . Patio homes have some similarities to condos and townhomes , including a shared wall and lawn , but differ slightly . Townhomes are typically two to three stories , while condos may be one to two . Patio homes max out at one-level living — sometimes including a loft , but the aim is for all amenities to be on one floor . This appeals to those looking for a home with a smaller footprint and without stairs . Patio homes also offer the sense of a close-knit community of people through shared lawns , amenities , and close living quarters .
But the biggest difference isn ’ t what ’ s on the inside , but what ’ s on the outside . Townhome and condo owners typically only own the interior of the housing unit , while patio home ownership also includes the lot that the property sits on . Although patio homeowners own their land , many communities have a homeowner association , or HOA , that you contribute to for hiring companies to provide lawn care and maintenance . If you ’ re looking for low-maintenance living but a strong sense of community , a patio home might be for you .
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