When buying a home, everyone has their own priorities. But having written priorities is an 

excellent way to guide you through the process without overlooking any features that are crucial to you and your loved ones. Understanding which features mean the most will help eliminate homes that won’t work for you and compare the homes that suit your taste and preference. 

In this article, we’ll highlight the features to consider when buying a home in Tampa. 

• Location
• The size of the lot
• The number of bedrooms
• Storage- closets, garages, and laundry
• Kitchen layout

Location

One of the most crucial aspects to consider when buying a home is the location! So, ensure that you pay special consideration to the neighborhood in which you’re buying a home. For instance, you may want to ensure your home has easy access to your work (while you may have adopted working remotely, you may still be required to attend meetings). You should also consider other amenities, including proximity to malls, retail stores, parks, and public transportation. 

Moreover, you should consider the quality of schools in the area. If you have school-going children, review the public and private options as well as registration and admission information. Note that even if you don’t have children, a good school is an excellent feature that can boost your home’s resale value. 

The Size of the Lot

Most people often give little thought to the size of the lot the home sits on. Within a neighborhood, the lot sizes may seem fairly similar. During the showings, you can look at what’s available and see if you have a clear preference for a corner or interior, large or small lot. Some lots are rectangular, others pie-shaped, while others are irregular in shape. Depending on how you’ll use your lawn, the level of privacy, and the length of the driveway, the size and shape of the lot might matter to you. 

The Number of Bedrooms

Every family has an idea of how many bedrooms they would like. Typically, many people prefer at least two bedrooms, but if there are children, the number can increase. Some families prefer their children to share bedrooms, while others like separate rooms for each to accommodate different study habits and bedtimes. And if you have regular visitors, it’s also wise to have a bedroom that’s designated as a guest room. 

Note: An extra bedroom can also serve as a kid’s bedroom, an office, a den, or an exercise room. Also, most hobbies require storage for supplies and working space, and an extra bedroom can serve that purpose as well. So, when buying a home, consider carefully your lifestyle and what will enhance it. 

Storage- Closets, Garages, and Laundry

Walk-in closets are extremely desirable for the master bedroom. For the rest of the home, ensure that there’s plenty of closet space. Remember to check for storage space for towels and linens- most linen closets are placed in hallways near bathrooms. 

A garage will also add to the resale value of your home, and hence you should try to get a home with at least a two-car garage. But lately, three-car garages are becoming more desirable in Tampa. Additionally, the garage should be a short trek to the kitchen so that hauling groceries in from the car doesn’t become a chore that you’ll dread. 

Note: The laundry facilities should be located somewhere convenient on the main floor of the house, but not somewhere it’ll create an eyesore. 

Kitchen Layout

Family activities are often centered around the kitchen, so it has become one of the most vital rooms of a house. As a general rule, homes with larger kitchens are more desirable particularly if they’re equipped with modern appliances. Also, by paying attention to the spaciousness of the dining space, you can aim to create a functional and practical area for yourself. 

Several kitchen designs, including U-shaped and island, create a fresh space for the residents. In addition, Peninsula, L-shaped, or one-wall kitchen layouts may work for you. And if there’s easy access to the backyard, that’s even better since they’ll be occasions for barbecues and outdoor entertaining. 

Age of the Home

If you aren’t looking to renovate, some homes that meet all your requirements might have been built decades ago. And while an older home may have its certain appeal and charm, it might also need more repairs, upgrades, and improvements. So, if you’re interested in an older home, ensure that you have the time and budget for renovations. Building codes are also an aspect to consider when buying a home. Codes might have changed over the years, for instance, today, homes shouldn’t have lead paint. So, having a basic understanding of the building laws then and now will help you better understand the state of the house. Consult your real estate agent since they may know the state of the house and where to find the information. 

Need Help Buying a Home in Tampa? Call Our Experts!

When you feel ready to become a homeowner in Tampa, it’s vital to pinpoint the most crucial features to consider when buying a home. By giving the above-mentioned features careful consideration, you’ll be sure to have awareness and mindfulness as you dive into the realm of homeownership. For more information about homeownership in Tampa, consult our real estate experts! We have the skills and expertise to ensure you find and buy your dream home in Tampa. Call us, and let’s kickstart your homeownership journey today!