Relocating?

Find The Perfect Home
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Relocating

Finding the perfect home, in the perfect neighborhood, involves a few steps. It will be a combination of careful planning, research, and consideration of your individual requirements and goals.

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 Here are some steps to help you in your search

    1. Define Your Budget:

      • Determine how much you can afford to spend on a home, taking into account your income, expenses, and potential mortgage rates.
    2. List Your Priorities:

      • Identify your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Consider factors such as location, size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, style, and any specific features you desire.
    3. Choose the Right Location:

      • Consider factors like proximity to work, schools, public transportation, amenities, and safety. Research neighborhoods to understand their character and future development plans.
    4. Research Real Estate Market:

      • Stay informed about the real estate market in the areas you’re interested in. Look at recent sales, price trends, and market conditions.
    5. Work with a Real Estate Agent:

      • A professional real estate agent can help you navigate the buying process, provide valuable insights, and show you properties that match your criteria.
    6. Visit Open Houses:

      • Attend open houses to get a feel for different properties and neighborhoods. Take notes and ask questions about each property.
    7. Consider Future Resale Value:

      • Even if you plan to stay in the home for a long time, it’s wise to consider the potential resale value. Look for properties in areas with a history of appreciation.
    8. Inspect the Property:

      • Once you find a potential home, hire a qualified home inspector to thoroughly evaluate its condition. This can help you identify any issues that may require repairs.
    9. Evaluate Homeowner’s Association (HOA) Rules:

      • If the property is part of an HOA, review their rules and regulations to ensure they align with your lifestyle and preferences.
    10. Check Zoning Laws:

      • Research local zoning laws to understand how nearby areas may be developed in the future. This can impact your property’s value and quality of life.
    11. Consider Your Commute:

      • Evaluate the commute to work, schools, and other important places. Factor in transportation options and traffic patterns.
    12. Trust Your Instincts:

      • Pay attention to your gut feeling about a property. Consider how it makes you feel and whether it aligns with your vision of the perfect home.

    Remember that finding the perfect home may involve some compromises. Prioritize your needs and be open to adjusting your expectations within reason. Take your time, do thorough research, and consult with professionals to make an informed decision.

Find Your Perfect West Michigan Home

  • They Trusted Me

  • "This was my second attempt to buy a house. I was really not looking forward to it because the first go-around was not a great experience. Based on a recommendation from a friend, I called Alix Criswell of Patriot Realty. I was more than pleased when I called and was able to speak with her right away. We spoke for a few minutes and I told her about my previous experience. She reassured me that I would not have that this time. She was so right! Four months later, we found our house and started the paperwork. I would like to tell anyone who is looking for a Realtor who is patient, honest, hard-working and treats clients with respect, Alix is who you should work with. She is very detail-oriented and honors the client’s wishes. She is readily available and will answer questions in a timely manner. She even will help find the right resources and put you in touch with the right people. I have and will continue to recommend Alix to any friends or family looking for a great Realtor! "

    Carrie

    Purchase Of A Home

  • "Alix Criswell helped us find our first home this past summer. Alix went above and beyond to schedule viewings, seek out answers to our questions, and guide us throughout the process. Her experience and expertise were invaluable as she gave us information on every house we looked at. As first time home buyers it was wonderful to have Alix on our side to help us understand everything about home ownership. The entire process went so smoothly, and with Alix’s help, we were able to get an amazing house! We cannot thank Alix enough for her help and guidance”

    Jeff & Stacy

    Purchase Of A Home

  • "Alix is detail-oriented and one of the most organized individuals I know professionally. My husband and I were fortunate to work with her through our first home-buying process. She made the process easy-to-follow and organized when buying a foreclosed home. Her support throughout the process was superb. Additionally, I have had the pleasure of observing her as a leader of several group meetings and functions in the Grand Rapids Area. She is both community- and client-driven, which is truly inspirational. "

    Michelle & Evan

    Purchase Of A Home

Ready to work together?

Alix Criswell - Broker/Owner:
Guidepost Real Estate, LLC
Realtor ®, ABR, GRI, PSA, SRES
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