Buying a House? Remember, Location, Location, Location!

Everyone has heard the term in real estate, "Location, location, location!"

This is singularly the most important thing to look at when buying a home. They didn't coin the phrase for nothing!

Why is it so important? This is where you'll be living, maybe for a short while, but chances are for a few years or more. You want to feel comfortable and secure in your new house. Even though you have to look at price, don't let a low price guide you into the wrong location.

Look for areas that you're comfortable in. High crime is the biggest deterrent. You might own the nicest house on the block, but if you can feel at peace at home, what good is it? You want to feel safe when you walk out that front door, no matter what time of the day it is. You also won't feel secure with a risk of break-ins when you're not home.

Proximity to schools and work is a high consideration for some. While some people don't mind commuting, after awhile it can get tiring, especially if you're trucking into a big city where traffic jams can be common. See if your new area might have train access if that's the case. A good school system is also something parents like to consider.

For people that might have disabilities, or for an older generation, I've found that the location to a nearest hospital is also a big must-have. If you have consistent doctors appointments, or need to go in for ongoing treatment, it is a lot easier on you, and family members if you are close by.

Take a look at the homes around you also. Are they kept up well? You might have a mansion of a house, with a manicured lawn, but be surrounded by small ranches. While this might not matter to some, you don't want to be the "snob" on the block, or vice versa. Buying a "fixer-upper" in an area of nice homes is perfectly acceptable; you'll be a refreshing change for your new neighbors.

Consider re-sale value if you ever plan to sell your house as well. Location will always play a big part in that. If you put a lot of time and money into fixing up your house, only to have it in a "bad" area, chances are you will have a hard time selling it when you want to move on. That will only add to the frustration!

Remember, you can always change the house; you can never change the location!