Can't Afford The Largest House? Buy A Flexible House Instead
Posted on: 15 September 2020
When you shop for real estate, you are likely looking for the biggest 'bang for your buck' when it comes to house size and price. But if you're on a budget, it may be better to think in terms of flexibility for future plans. What does flexibility mean when it comes to real estate? Here are five things to look for.
1. Size of the Yard.
The yard around your home can provide great flexibility if it's large enough and laid out well. You could, for instance, add on additional bedrooms, bathrooms, or kitchen space by expanding into the yard. Alternatively, a covered patio area could provide outdoor cooking, lounges, or dining areas. For both options, though, you need sufficient space that is conveniently located around the home.
2. Open Floor Plans.
An open floor plan is somewhat flexible in and of itself, as you can easily move furniture around and create 'zones' for different purposes. However, it can also be a 'blank slate' for future remodeling options. Need to add a family room? With a large and unobstructed space, you can choose the size and locations that best fit your needs.
3. Additional Bedrooms.
Bedrooms are handy things. Of course, you can use them as a bedroom if your family is large. But an unused bedroom can also serve as a guest room, home office, craft or hobby room, game room, video-conference area, hideaway for Mom or Dad, or even an extra closet. So don't overlook the value of buying a house with at least one unnecessary bedroom.
4. Attached Garage.
A garage that is attached to the house is another useful all-purpose area. Many homeowners use this space for its unparalleled extra storage capacity. But a converted garage could become a mother-in-law suite for future long-term house guests, a home business base, or your hobby wood shop. With its open floor plan and access to the house, the garage has endless possibilities.
5. Extra Closets.
When most people look at closets, they think about them in their current form — as closets. But these spaces can be repurposed for a variety of reasons. Removing an unneeded closet adds open space to a small room. You might turn a large walk-in into a nursery or even another bedroom. And since closets are often built back-to-back, you could remodel them into one large closet for a growing teen or make the master suite larger. Closets could be hidden gems of potential.
If you consider the ways you may be able to remake the house as your needs change over the years, even a budget-minded house hunter can find more space and possibility than they thought they could. Want more ideas for a flexible house plan? Consult with an experienced real estate agent in your community today.
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