对我们大多数人来说，购买或建造房屋将是我们一生中最大的投资。这一节是关于如何在新房子中寻找最物有所值的东西，或者出于同样的原因在建筑地块中寻找什么。
What to look for in a home location:
- Being close to where you work and play
- Nearby services: Groceries, banks, shops, public transportation
- Minimal traffic: Air pollution, noise pollution, commute times, walk-ability
- Emergency services: Hospitals, fire and police
- Municipal services: Access to power, water and sewage (this is more relevant for building lots)
- Green space: Being close to parks and water ways
- Soil conditions and topography to avoid flooding
- Stay away from flood plains
- Backyard privacy and greenery
- Sun exposure: For interior quality of life, also for a garden if that's your thing.
- Community: Do you like the neighbours and community?
- Is it kid friendly? (this is good to know, even if you hate kids)
How to recognize a valuable home:
Don't just look at how many bedrooms and bathrooms, true value goes far beyond that.
- Energy efficiency - ask to see utility bills
- Quality heating equimpment and affordability in operation
- Exterior durability - building enclosures and water management
- Interior air quality
- Interior durability - water resistant surfaces in wet areas
- Interior design and functionality of space
- Soundproofing from the exterior and in division walls
- Good quality windows
- Quality mechanical systems
Just because a home you like doesn't score an A+ on all the above criteria doesn't mean you should cross it off your list. Be sure you know what you are buying, and that you have the funds to pay for any improvements, certainly any urgent ones. And showing that you did your homework will give you a leg up in negotiations.
Now you know about what to look for when shopping for a home. Find more about home maintenance and renovations in the EcoHomeGreen Building Guideand in the following pages:
Find more aboutgreen home constructionand reapthe benefits of a free Ecohome Network Membership here. |
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