It’s that time of the year again where “love” is in the air, romance fills the atmosphere, and lovers see the world through the “rose colored glasses” of red and pink. Visit any downtown and expect to see “starry-eyed” gazes, childlike giggles, passionate lip locks and the occasional frantic man running in and out of jewelry stores.
But have you ever had these same sentiments for a home? Have you walked in a place and felt “weak to your knees,” or been infatuated with the amenities? Was your breath taken away by the alluring view of the luscious yard, or have you fallen head over heels with a house’s inviting and welcoming lay-out?
Apparently love is not just limited to another human being. According to Realtor.com 69% percent of people reported having a “home crush.” During the home search, many people treat this process like they do dating, evaluating the home based upon personal likes, style, fit and compatibility.
It is the Realtors job to guide you through this process and advise you to use caution and reason when purchasing a home. I think it’s important to consider all possibilities when choosing a home. Doing so will protect you from getting caught up in the emotional ecstasy of the “in-love” experience–which can sometimes cause you to overlook serious red flags. You have to make sure you know what’s really out there. You evaluate what is a turn-on and turn-off, and perhaps you’ll fall in love.
Just as historically men and women approach dating differently, they also deal with “home crushes” in unique ways. 41% of women tend to fall in love with a home outside of a price range vs 30% of men. Men are more quick to move from one home crush to another where as women are less prone to lose sight of their “real love.”
Yet there are factors that are appealing to both men and women alike. 56% ofwomen and 46% of men said outdoor living spaces are the elements that make them “fall-in love” with a home. Additionally 42% of women preferred open-floor plans and 0% or men preferred garages.Most people attribute their “home-crush” to “online-dating”– since 80% admit to finding homes on the internet first and 1/3 made the next step of seeing the home in person. Unfortunately, I think heartbreak is also possible in the home buying process just as it is in dating. You have to be realistic. When you’re looking at homes outside of your price range, the last thing you want to is be disappointed. It would be like falling in love with someone on the other side of the country.The best way to protect yourself from unwelcome heartbreak, is to stay open to all possibilities and consider multiple homes at the same time. Remember that there are “many fish in the sea,” and with time, patience and open-mindedness, you will be sure to find the “perfect fit.”
Please visit the Kurt Piper Group website www.kurtpipergroup.com to learn more about Leslie and the Kurt Piper Group or email leslie@kurtpipergroup.com.
- What Cities are the Best for First Time Home Buyers? - April 7, 2014
- Scared to Sell Your Home? 4 Signs You’re Ready - February 24, 2014
- Do You Have a Home Crush? - February 14, 2014
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