Housing...Inside and Out

July 23, 1999
Define Your Housing Needs

An error committed by many homebuyers is to rush out and look at houses without defining what the family needs and wants. The buyer may find a place he or she really likes and then later attempt for the family to fit the house. Such an emotional purchase may seriously damage the family's happiness and well being.

To avoid this common error, access the characteristics that make your family special and your housing needs unique.

Before making a snap or quick decision about the type housing you need, there are some specific questions that need to be asked.

First, how are you living now and in what ways do you want to improve your living arrangement?

Determine the stage of life at which your family is presently. Decide if you want or need a large house and yard for children or will a smaller house allow more free time to do the things you want to do.

Decide, also, in what ways will your family change and how these changes will influence your housing needs and wants. Be realistic about your needs. For example, how soon will your children be leaving for college or a career? Will you be looking for a house that will serve you 15 to 20 years or only 5 to 10 years? Studies indicate that most homeowners on an average move within seven years.

Look closely at the activities and interests that a house will permit your family to continue. For example, should the house include space and features for entertaining, reading and thinking in private, sewing, gardening, preparing elaborate meals or walking to your place of work?

Use the necessary time to determine accurately your family's needs and wants. By taking time to make this final assessment, you will establish an important measure to select a home for your family.


Written by Dr. Francis Graham (Retired)

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