If you are looking to buy a home, there are important things to consider, like your budget, the type of mortgage you’ll apply for and what conditions you’ll include in your offer. But when purchasing real estate, there are other factors to pay attention to – small details that can make a lasting impact on your ownership experience.
Here are nine things to think about when house hunting for homes in Mississauga:
1. House Orientation
How a house is oriented on its lot impacts how much natural light you’ll have in the home. A south-facing property will be very bright and sunny, while an east-facing one will enjoy more morning light. Think of how the home’s orientation may impact your heating and cooling bills. If your main living spaces are west-facing, it may cost more to keep these rooms cool in the summer.
2. Driveway Size
An often-forgotten consideration is driveway length and width, but it’s important to think about it if you have many vehicles or don’t enjoy shovelling in the winter.
3. Street Parking
Depending on the Mississauga neighbourhood you are house-hunting in, not all streets allow overnight parking. If a home doesn’t have a driveway or garage parking, be sure you’ll have somewhere to safely store your cars.
4. Proximity to Neighbours
Sometimes proximity to neighbours is beyond your control, especially when buying a condo apartment, townhome or semi-detached in a city like Mississauga. If privacy is important to you, pay attention to the views in and out of the home or other features, like landscaping, for some separation.
5. Lot Grade
When buying a home, lot size is an important consideration, but so is the grade of the lot. If the home is set on a steep incline, you may be limited in your ability to enjoy the surrounding landscape or add structures, like a deck or shed.
6. Outdoor Access
Being able to easily access outdoor spaces can enhance the enjoyment of living in a home. Look for doors leading to outdoor areas to maximize your ability to entertain, grill or relax outside.
7. Layout
The interior layout of a home plays an important role in daily life. One-floor living is ideal for people with limited mobility or even families with young children, while multi-level living is great if you want space to spread out. Pay attention to where certain rooms are too. For example, some people prefer laundry on the bedroom level, while others prefer it in the basement.
8. Room Size
The number of rooms is important, but so is the size of the rooms. When considering a home, measure your furniture beforehand and take a measuring tape with you, so you can better assess living space size.
9. Windows
Windows can be added or modified, but it’s an expensive change to make on a whim. If you want to maximize airflow, sunlight or privacy, look for a home with well-placed windows. Bonus points if window coverings are included to avoid that expense down the road.
Sound Advice to Guide You Home
When purchasing real estate, a realtor is a great expert to have in your corner. They will guide you through the search with an unbiased eye to help you find the ideal home to suit your needs.
To learn more about my buying and selling services, contact me, Deborah Clerk, Real Estate Sales Representative and ASA at Keller Williams Real Estate Associates, Brokerage in Mississauga, Ontario.
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