This year my New Years Resolution is committed to loosing 30 pounds by my birthday at the end of the April. I'm still out of town as I write this, so I'll plan to start my high-powered work outs and diet as soon as I return to Atlanta -- tomorrow.
That's AFTER I make a stop along the way, at the home of a former client who purchased a home from me in Alpharetta in January 2007. Jim (not his real name) was a first time home buyer back then. Now he has a wife and two of the sweatest little girls you could ever see.
In September, Jim contacted me to let me know he had been laid off from his job in Atlanta. He inquired about the possibility of renting his home out -- assuming he found a new job. He also considered refinancing the property and other alternatives. Jim called me the day after Christmas to say that he had been offered and accepted a new job. His start date is January 12th! He's relocating to Florida. Although he's thankful for the new job, WOW! it all happened too fast. There's a moving van at the house today. They are leaving Georgia for Florida on Tuesday. They've asked me to list the house for sale. I plan to visit them on my way into town early tomorrow afternoon.
Likewise, while I was visiting my family in Cleveland, Ohio for the holidays, I was able to sell a home which will close in mid-January. While I was visiting family in Dallas, Texas for Thanksgiving, I sold a home during my 861 mile drive to Dallas.
I feel the momentum!
I suspect, based on my INBOX and the questions I've been receiving during the Christmas and holiday break, that there are lots of folks whose New Years Resolutions revolve around purchasing a home during 2012.
There are so many homes on the market. How can you be sure you are making the right choice? From condos, downtown neighborhoods, suburbs, and country homes, there's a perfect fit for every buyer.
To make the best decision you need to be sure to really give time to your decision making process. Yes, your gut can take you in the right direction, but don't be one of the many buyers that falls prey to listening only to their hearts, ending up biting off more than they can chew.
Some homes take more work than others. This goes double for older homes. The same can be said for many foreclosed houses. The price tag might be appealing or you might love the styling of the home, but keep in mind that much of a homes value is actually in its condition, location and marketability.
These are all good reasons to have an inspection done on any home you are considering buying. Additionally, you should have a clause in your contract that states if the inspection comes back unsatisfactorily that you, the buyer, have the right to end the purchase contract.
Different homes also come with different lifestyle factors. Some buyers love the idea of having everything within walking distance. They like spending their extra time meeting friends for dinner, and drinks or perusing the latest art exhibit. Could a condo be a good fit? Possibly.
Perhaps you prefer a more isolated setting. Many people love the idea of country life. Just keep in mind that the further you are from people, the further you will likely be from the grocery stores, hospitals, restaurants, the gym.
Likewise, a suburban lifestyle is appealing to many -- especially families. Cities expanded to welcome their growing populations that wanted, and could afford, newer homes with their own nearby shopping centers. The negative aspect to the suburbs is sometimes a long commute to work, but many people are willing to swap the inconvenience of a long commute for the positive aspects of excellent school systems.
The real key is to decide what lifestyle is best for you and your family. Once you've decided this fundamental consideration, you'll be able to zero in on the best location. Next, be sure to consider more than just just the price tag of the home. Consider upkeep costs, area taxes, needed repairs and even future saleability. Do your due-diligence. Make sure your Realtor is committed to you and your best interest too. If you'll do these things, you're well on your way to making the right decision about the home that best suits your current needs and lifestyle.
Happy 2012 New Year!
Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia and specializes in assisting home buyers relocating to Georgia, as well as first-timers and 55+ senior buyers. You can visit Sara's websites at www.SaraHibbard.com, www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com, www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com and www.SearchWoodstockHomes.com. Sara can be reached via social media at www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind, www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1 and www.AtlantaMLSHomesBlog.com. Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on Your Mind!
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