We’ve all heard that adage, “location, location, location” exclaimed when buyers are looking for a home. But sometimes, it’s not that simple. For many buyers marrying the right mix of dream home and dream location is bound by budget or other factors such as work. Knowing where you and your partner/family fit on the continuum of Looks V Location is one of the most important first steps when embarking on a home buying journey.
So, let’s talk it out…
Looks
Some buyers are drawn to the appearance and style of a house, such as its size, layout, design, and features like a pool and garage. They may prefer a new build home, or a heritage house with a historical charm. These buyers care more about the looks of the house than its location. They are usually willing to compromise on the distance to work, school, or family, as long as they find the house that matches their vision.
Are you a looks buyer who values the appearance and functionality of the home more than the surroundings? Are you prepared to keep searching until you find the right home?
I am currently searching for a client who wants a home with character and is willing to overlook simple floorplan quirks as they do not want to buy a cookie-cutter floorplan home. In real time this looks like working a search area of more suburbs than is usual or often recommended.
Location
Some buyers are more concerned about the location of the house, such as its neighbourhood, proximity to services, school zone, and commute time. They may want to be close to their children’s school, their family and friends, or their workplace. These buyers care more about the location of the house than its looks. They may be willing to overlook some flaws or outdated features of the house, as long as they find the house that suits their lifestyle values such as safety and belonging.
Are you a location buyer who values the convenience and quality of the neighbourhood more than the house itself? Do you believe you can always change the house, but you can’t change the location?
I am currently searching for a client who only wants to be in one precinct of one suburb due to family constraints. There are of course less options with this brief but they are willing to be flexible on the style of home without compromising the quality of home
Why it matters?
Whether you are more of a Looks Buyer or a Location Buyer can depend on your budget and your priorities. Knowing which one really lights you up – which option will really bring you sustained happiness in your home is key. It’s key to your wellbeing but also, if you are in a partnership or wish to accommodate the needs of family members, it’s key to your relationships.
Where on the continuum does each person rest? What values are most important to each person?
It’s critical to have the right types of conversations.
You may have to make some trade-offs between the two aspects when searching for a home but knowing why can help make compromises feel like discernments. Factoring in time before you buy – planned length of ownership or time before your renovate or before kids move out and so on – should be part of your home buying plan.
Knowing what matters most (because it’s not always clear cut) can help you fine tune your options, save everybody time and possibly angst and most of all, help you make better decisions.
The clarity of your LVL position & needs matters because this will help you not miss a home you should buy and not buy in a location you should not buy!