Buying a home is always stressful, but it can be particularly overwhelming for first-time home buyers. For those who haven’t bought a home before, the process can be daunting. Where do you start and how do you make the right decision? What should you consider about a home before you commit to your purchase? If this line of questioning sounds familiar, you’re not alone. In fact, about 32% of people looking to buy new homes are first-time home buyers. Here is a simple list of a few main points you should consider when you buy your first home.

How Much Space Do You Need?

When you’re buying your first home, you might not be living in a particularly large space. Remember that when you buy a home, you’re buying one to grow into in the future. Single family homes are a popular choice for many homebuyers, as they’re a comfortable choice for families that need room to grow. However, if you’re planning on living with multiple generations, single family homes might not be large enough. Remember to account for anyone who may be living in your home now or in the future. That said, be realistic about the amount of space you actually need to ensure you buy a home you can afford.

What’s the Neighborhood Like?

How do you go about choosing the right place to live? Again, remember that you’re planning for both right now and in the future. Do you have small children now? Even if they’re not in school yet, you’ll want to pay attention to the school districts near you. Not a fan of a long commute? You’ll want to find a place with a shorter distance to work. In addition, remember that neighborhood can impact your home’s value over time. Real estate agents will tell you that it’s all about location, location, location — so make sure that you love both the home and the surrounding area before you buy.

What About New Construction?

If you’re looking for a home that has all the luxurious bells and whistles you could ask for, you’re going to want to look at new construction homes. New builds and custom homes will not only have all of the elements you need in a home, but they’ll also require less maintenance when you first move in. An older home could have hidden surprises that end up costing you. But new construction homes or luxury homes will be ready for you to move in as soon as possible and won’t come with unforeseen expenses like frequent repairs or replacement.

Ready to begin your home buying experience as a first-time buyer or looking to learn more about new construction homes? Contact Rockwell Custom for more information.