09 Feb Making the right move, key factors to consider when choosing your next home

If you have decided that 2023 is the year for you to buy your first home, move home, or add to your portfolio of homes, we understand that buying a property is a big investment and it’s important for you to take your time and make sure that you find the right home to fall in love with. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced property investor, there are many factors to consider when choosing a new home.

If you’re thinking of moving, renting or buying, and want some home inspiration take some time to browse our properties available in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas. If you have any questions or want to speak to our expert team on the matter, you can also visit our award-winning website or call us on 01344 843000 or email us.

In this blog post, we’ll go over the most important things to keep in mind as you begin your search.

The key factors to consider

Finding the right location

Location is top of the key factor list when it comes to buying a home. Consider the proximity to your job, family, and friends, as well as access to transport links, shopping, and amenities that you enjoy. Do you want to live in a bustling city or a more relaxed suburban area? Do you need to be close to public transportation or do you prefer to drive? These are all important questions to consider when choosing a location.

If you are looking at the Virginia Water area, situated just 21 miles from central London, Virginia Water boasts a serene atmosphere with its abundance of greenery and picturesque countryside feel. A direct train journey of 45 minutes to London makes it the ideal location for those seeking a balance between city and country life, it offers something for all ages. Located between the M3, M4, and M25 motorways, as well as close proximity to airports such as Farnborough, Heathrow, and Gatwick, all ensures easy accessibility by both road and air.

The high streets of Virginia Water, Sunningdale, Ascot and Windsor offer something for everyone, with a diverse range of coffee shops, bakeries, fashion outlets, and dining options ranging from gastro pubs to fine dining restaurants and hotels. Sports facilities are brilliant in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas also, from Polo clubs to Cricket, Football, Golf clubs and Horse racing, we’ve got it all on our doorstep.

Getting to know the area

The area you live in is just as important as the home itself. Research the area’s safety, schools, parks, and community activities. Talk to the neighbours and get a feel for the area. Do the residents seem friendly and welcoming? Are there a lot of families with kids or is it more of an older, quieter community? These are all factors that can impact your quality of life and if you can suss out the area and ensure it is a good fit before you commit you’ll be much happier in the long run with your choice.

Our team, many of whom have lived in the area for many years, are happy to share their local knowledge with you. The area has great schools and the stunning Virginia Water Lake, plus the lovely Windsor Great Park, for walks, picnics, and exercise, all within easy reach.

The size and layout that you desire

The size and layout of a home can make a big difference in how comfortable it feels. Consider how many bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces you need, and make sure the layout works for your lifestyle. Do you want an open-plan living space or separate rooms for different activities? Do you need a large space for gardening or outdoor activities? These are all important considerations.

The age and condition of the home you want 

When looking for a home, it’s important to consider its age and overall condition. If you’re considering something that you can move straight into with very little needing done to it, look for a home that’s in good condition, with updated systems and features. Consider the age of the home and any potential maintenance issues that may arise. A newer home may have fewer issues, but an older home may have more character and charm.

In Virginia Water, Wentworth, and the surrounding areas, our portfolio of homes in the area boasts a diverse selection, ranging from historic and charming old homes to sleek and modern contemporary builds.

The style and character that you like

Everyone has a different sense of style and character when it comes to homes. Some people prefer traditional, classic styles, while others prefer a more modern, minimalist look. Think about what you’re drawn to and what style of home will make you feel most comfortable. Do you want a home with unique features like fireplaces, bay windows, or hardwood floors? Or would you prefer a more modern look with sleek lines and a neutral palette?

The future potential of the home

When buying a home, it’s important to think about the future. Consider any future changes that could impact the home’s value, like planned developments. Also, consider your future plans and make sure the home can accommodate them. Are you planning to start a family soon and therefore you will need extra bedrooms? Are you thinking about retiring in the near future and want a one-story home with no stairs? By taking the future into account, you can ensure that your new home will continue to meet your needs for years to come.

And finally, setting your budget

It’s important to determine a realistic budget for your new home. Take into account the ongoing costs of homeownership, such as property taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance expenses. You should also factor in the cost of any necessary repairs or upgrades, as well as any potential renovations you may want to make. For example, if the electrics or heating system needs to be completely replaced or if the home has a thatched roof, find out when it was fitted and if it needs immediately replacing, as this can be a costly addition if it’s not noted your budget.

It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your financial situation and budget before making an offer on a home, as this will help you make a sound investment that you are comfortable with in the long term. Make sure your monthly mortgage payment is manageable based on your current income and expenses. Our expert team are on hand to advise on any cost considerations.

By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to find the perfect home that fits your needs and lifestyle. Just remember to take your time, ask questions, and have fun with the process. For some home inspiration take some time to browse our properties available in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas.

Thinking of moving to Virginia Water?

Barton Wyatt calls Virginia Water home and has been proudly located in the same office since 1965. With a deep understanding of the area, we know it like the back of our hand. Our experienced team are here to show you around some of the best properties available in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas. We’re experts in our field and we are proud to present to you our portfolio of properties. If you have any questions a member of our expert team would be happy to advise. You can call us on 01344 843000 or email us.

GET IN TOUCH

If you are thinking of moving in or out of the area, make sure you take a look at our amazing catalogue of properties for sale in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas. If you’d like to speak to someone about properties to let in Virginia Water, a member of our expert team would be happy to help. You can call us on 01344 843000 or email us. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.