What Single Buyers Need To Considering Before Buying

According to the National Association of Realtors, in 2010 unmarried women accounted for 20% of home purchases and unmarried men accounted for 12%. In my experience the biggest mistake single buyers make in their home selection is not considering whether that home could still accommodate them if their single status changes. A single woman who has modest needs might only buy a home that is big enough for herself, but what happens if she wants her boyfriend to move in? Suddenly that cozy home for one is a tight squeeze for two.

Buyers should never spend beyond their means when purchasing a home. But they should make sure that the home can grow with them. They need to be honest with themselves about how long they plan to live in the home and what lifestyle changes could happen during that time. Below are some good questions for single buyers to answer before buying a home:

1. How long do I plan to live in this home?
2. What lifestyles changes might happen during that time?
3. If I get into a serious relationship, would I want that person to move in?
4. Is there enough space (including closet space) for two people to comfortably live here?
5. Is there enough space for each of us to have our own space?
6. Is there parking for more than one car?
7. If we have a baby, is this a home that is appropriate for a child?
8. Do I want a pet? Is there outdoor space for a pet? Would you like taking walks in your neighborhood?
9. Does this house accommodate my hobbies?

Another hint I have for all buyers is to walk through neighborhoods to really get a feel for whether you'd like to call that neighborhood home. A new place looks a lot different from a car window than it does on foot. By walking you can get a better feel for lot sizes and how close together the homes are, whether the city is maintaining the streets and sidewalks, whether the residents are maintaining their homes and whether there are other homes that you prefer to the one you are considering. Remember that you are not just buying a home, you are buying into a neighborhood.