Have you decided to simplify your life by downsizing your place of residence? Perhaps you are now empty nesters and your present house has just become a series of empty rooms that are seldom used. It might also be that you simply don't want the upkeep of a large house and the yard work that often goes with it. For whatever reason you have decided to look at single family homes, from checking out the neighborhood to finding a realtor, here are some ideas that might help you as you are downsizing to a smaller home.
Where Do You Want To Live? - Are you hesitant to leave the area in which you currently live? Perhaps you are close to doctors, friends, and even shopping areas that you want to keep in your life. If so, think about moving to a smaller home right in your own neighborhood. On the other hand, maybe you are ready to branch out. Perhaps you have always wanted to live near places like museums, theaters and art galleries. Maybe you've decided that you'd like to live near a college or university so that you can take classes close to home. You might also have decided that you want to live in the country, away from the busy lifestyle that the suburbs or city life offer. It might be helpful for you to write down things you are looking for in the actual location of your single family home. Doing so mill more than likely help you to proceed with finding a realtor.
What Are You Looking For? - When you have narrowed the location of where you'd like to live, consider what it is you are looking for in your actual home. Again, it might be helpful for you to write down things that will help you when you meet with a realtor. For instance, think of how you want to use your home. If you enjoy gardening, tell the realtor that you'd like a single family home that has at least a small yard. If you love to entertain, you might want a home that has a patio or one larger living area rather than both a living room and a family room. Do you want to be in a neighborhood that has a very active home owner's association? Your realtor will probably have the training and the experience to know just which houses to show you.