“Perfect” is a relative term, specific for each individual. Perfect is actually a matter of perspective, a play into a value system. Perfect is not linear, and it is certainly not “one size fits all.”

A good place to start: is there anything in your current home that feels like a pain point? Something you wish you can change based not on how you’re living now, but on the person you are becoming? Anything that you are longing for is something to deeply consider when looking for your next home.

Then we follow up with the limitations: ie, the budget. After looking at incoming money, how much is the maximum comfortable spend on monthly housing expenses? Even more, are there things that you are willing to give up that you normally enjoy (ie traveling, shopping), that would enable you to get the apartment that you really want if it does end up costing more that expected?

Next, we think about the other big constraints: location and size of apartment home. These two things will often drastically determine the cost of an apartment home. When thinking about location, apartments close to city centers and transportation hubs in “trending” neighborhoods will drive up the price. The further you move from transportation, the more favorable the price point tends to be. When factoring in space, the larger the apartment (ie 2 bedroom v 1 bedroom), will of course make a difference in price. The question here lies: which one is more important? And if both are equally incredibly important, then how flexible is your price range?

What determines a location’s importance is relative to lifestyle: what does your daily life look like? How often do you need to take public transportation, or will you have a car instead? And for apartment size: do you work from home at all and are thinking about where to put a desk? Are there any pieces of furniture that you currently have (or want to have) that you would like to bring with you into this next apartment home? What do you need in your home to make it work for you and the life that you want to live (not necessarily the current life that you are living now)? What about beyond your day to day? What really makes you come alive? Do you enjoy entertaining? If so, is an open-style kitchen, a large living room, or an extra bathroom important (or perhaps a combination of any / all)? Are you a plant parent? If so, do your plant babies need direct sunlight? These lifestyle questions and more are all things to consider when thinking of your next home!

For some people, answering these questions can be a fun exercise and for others, it can be an overwhelming and intimidating process. If the latter sounds like you, I’d love to help you navigate this process to find that place where you feel like you belong. Loving your home isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity!

Curious about how to find the perfect place for you? Reach out and let’s find your next home, together!