Property Location

How Do You Choose a Property

We all know the cliché answer – location, location, location!

But how do you choose the optimum location for your individual property and lifestyle requirements Several factors need to be considered. To help make the decision, a logical approach is called for. Draw up a two part checklist containing the features that are a) essential and b) desirable for the location of your property.

The final decision is not simply one of selecting a geographical area. Choosing the most suitable type of location will very much depend on your personal circumstances. Ask yourself the following questions:
Will you be living on your own, with a partner, with children, an extended family, an elderly relative or possibly with a friend
How much can you afford to pay (or borrow)
With your lifestyle in mind, are you looking for a flat, a small house or a large house
Do you need a garden, parking facilities or a garage
What shopping and leisure facilities do you require nearby
Would you prefer an urban, suburban or rural style property

Narrowing Down the Choice of Location
Beware of basing your location search on subjective criteria and gut instinct alone. Stay focussed. You may have a fixed opinion about the district where you would prefer to live, or already have ear-marked a street or plot with particular appeal, but remain open-minded. Do bear in mind that even at this level of detail properties may vary considerably. Little things really do matter when you are choosing somewhere to live, long-term, so explore the subtle variations that exist within each area.

If having a view matters to you, choose a property in an elevated position. Do you object to being overlooked by neighbours If so, choose a property in a more secluded location, preferably with an enclosed garden and uninterrupted views. If you are looking for a flat, would you feel more secure if you chose one on an upper floor of an apartment building rather than on the ground floor

If a property location looks and feels ‘right’ then you are more likely to be happy living there. Moreover, when the time comes to sell, potential purchasers will probably have similar feelings.

Summary
When choosing a location, multiple factors, e.g. lifestyle requirements, local community and culture, re-sale potential, etc. should be considered to enable you to see the overall picture before making a decision;
when making the final choice of location, remember that small details are important, too.