Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Home Smarts - From Ottawa's New Homes and Condos Part 2

Marnie Bennett is the exclusive real estate expert columnist for New Homes and Condos. Pick up your FREE copy at news stands and distributors throughout the city of Ottawa. See below for her new column "Home Smarts" and learn everything there is to know about real estate.

Your New Home Search: Zeroing in on “The One”

Published in the May 22nd, 2010 issue of New Homes and Condos

When I’m getting to know new clients, I sometimes sense that they’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options on the new home market. While approaching the home search with an open mind is helpful, it’s equally important to recognize the aspects of a home that are truly important to you. Compromise is often part of the process, but there are always a few items that are simply non-negotiable – and, believe it or not, it can take a bit of soul-searching to discover what they are.

I like to sit down with my clients and have an in-depth conversation about their practical needs as well as their “dream home” ideals. The following questions can help to unearth some key priorities:

Life Stages - Families evolve, and it’s wise to consider the future as well as the present. Do you plan to have children? Do you have teenagers who will be moving away soon? Are you close to retirement? Will you need a home that can accommodate different stages of life? These questions can go a long way in helping you decide what type and size of home will best meet your needs.

Lifestyles - The way your family works and plays is fundamental in choosing a neighbourhood. How much commuting are you willing to do every day? How much will your commuting costs be? While houses are generally more affordable outside of the city, the costs of gas and perhaps a second car can add up quickly; sometimes spending the extra money for a more central location is balanced by savings elsewhere.

Examine – honestly – how you spend your leisure time, whether it’s playing sports, visiting cultural hot spots, exploring nature or cocooning with the family. How close would you like to live to extended family and friends? How important are good schools, recreation facilities and walking paths?

Size Requirements - How many bedrooms and bathrooms are needed? Do you need space for a hobby, storage or home office? A family room? A two-car garage?

Special Features - These can range from the indulgent to the absolutely necessary. Do you want air conditioning, a fireplace or a swimming pool? Do you require certain features to accommodate family members with special needs? Are you interested in saving energy, enhancing indoor air quality and reducing environmental impact?
We all have different priorities. Ask yourself which ones are closest to your heart, and the right home will follow!

Email your questions to mbennett@bennettpros.com
Or for more information on Ottawa Real Estate visit www.bennettpros.com
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Marnie Bennett owns a boutique real estate marketing firm known as Bennett & Company, providing a full range of marketing services to real estate developers and builders. Marnie is also a broker and the team leader of the Bennett Real Estate Professionals with Keller Williams Ottawa Realty. The Bennett Pros are the leading real estate team in Ottawa providing 5 star services, with five star treatment.

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