6 things to consider when purchasing your new home

1. Location and access

When you’re looking to buy a new home, it’s important to think about your ideal lifestyle and the pace of life that suits you best.

Think about whether you prefer the energy of a bustling city area, the tranquility of a remote countryside location, or something in between.
Would you and your family prefer living in an apartment, or in a house? Fortunately, there are plenty of options available, such as flats, bungalows, or cozy cottages, so you can choose what suits your family best.

Also, take into account your transportation needs. Do you rely on your own car or prefer using public transport? In any case, it’s worth checking how close the property is to main roads and likely traffic hold ups. Take a moment to find out where the nearby bus stops and train stations are too, consider the commuting time needed daily.

Plan your daily travel routes: home to work, school and kindergarten, grocery store, healthcare, and other essential services.
Are these places accessible by public transport, bike, or car? Do you need a car just to be able to move around from your new home?

2. Neighborhood

When choosing the right locality for your new home, consider the needs of your family.

If you have children, explore the recreational opportunities in the area (youth centers, hobby schools, playgrounds, sports facilities, bike paths).
For elderly family members, look into the facilities offered (health centers, pharmacies, day centers, cultural centers, cinemas).

If these are not within walking distance, find out how easy it is to reach them. Safety is important to consider. Decide whether you prefer a densely populated neighborhood, a more secluded and private setting, or a community-type environment that has good social interactions. Find out sow active is the local community: homeowners’ associations, village societies, day centers, cultural centers, youth centers.

If it’s not a new development, research whether the homeowners’ association is active and how is the nature of relationships among residents. If possible, visit key local institutions to determine how they operate and whether they provide value to your family.

3. Space surrounding the property

The outdoor area of your new home is important for your well-being, including social health, mental health, physical health and overall satisfaction. It’s important to think about what you expect from an outdoor space and what activities, views, and experiences you want.

Does the property offer leisure spaces for residents, such as comfy outdoor seating areas, nicely kept playgrounds for children and perhaps even convenient fitness area or a fire place (BBQ area)?
It’s also worth assessing if there are useful green spaces that enhance your quality of life. For example, a well-designed green buffer between the property and the main road can block noise and dust, also providing a sense of privacy, blocks unwanted views, reduces light pollution and noise from the street, and is aesthetically pleasing.
Look for properties with interesting gardens that have a variety of trees, shrubs, and vibrant flowerbeds.
Additionally, check if there is ample parking available. Maybe a parking lot or designated parking spaces.

4. Nearby green areas

Spending time in the nature, green spaces, near water bodies is known to promote a sense of relaxation (provide a sense of being away), restore attention, reduce stress, and help with overall well-being. Living close to green spaces can have a really good impact on your health, well-being, and lifestyle.

It’s good to see what green spaces there are near the property. Any publicly accessible areas, such as water bodies, charming nature trails, inviting public parks, well-maintained walking paths and other recreational areas (for example managed by the Estonian Forest Management Center) can make such a difference. Gather details about these nearby green areas from a local information center or other local resources as they can provide valuable insights.

5. Heritage

If the property is not a new development but an older house, it’s worth checking whether there are any historical features on the property or nearby. While these sites can be cherished and a source of pride, they can also come with certain obligations that could impact your future activities. It’s wise to check if it’s a heritage or cultural heritage site; if it’s located in or near a Natura area, or a conservation area. If a building, structure, or tree is considered of value historically or culturally, there might be specific demands made for maintenance, the use of the building and/or land area might be restricted etc. It’s important to know of possible restrictions or obligations before making a decision. Information from a reliable source or local authorities can give valuable guidance.

6. Future activities in the area

If the property is a new development, it’s wise to look at the area’s general plan and, if available, the detailed plan. This can reveal what future constructions are planned for the surrounding areas. This knowledge is useful to ensure, for example, that the current sea view remains even after the completion of future development phases, or to find out if a prison, landfill, large shopping center, or something else will be built nearby.

In conclusion, before choosing a home and its location, you need to identify and remember your and your family’s needs and preferences; overall activity; well-being and quality of life; and then make choices based on these factors. By going through these six steps, you’ll make a well-considered decision about buying your new home.