  Sandra Rinomato hosts Property Virgins, Mondays on HGTV. |
Many first-time homebuyers start out with wide eyes and a long wish list. But their list may be based more on current trends and not reflect their true needs or values.
That’s why I encourage my clients to sort out their personal priorities before they start their house hunt.
For instance, you might long for a large lot in a quiet suburban cul-de-sac. But ask yourself how much time you’re willing to spend in your car when you could be enjoying your new home. Access to public transportation, proximity to work and school, with shops and services within walking distance can make a big difference in the viability of a location. There’s more at stake here than just lowering carbon emissions; it’s also about quality of life.
And what about the size of your home? The bigger the house, the more space you’re heating and cooling. That’s something to think about, since about 60% of Canadians’ home energy use is related to these two activities. Be realistic about how much space you’re really going to use. Bigger isn’t necessarily better.
Size matters when it comes to your yard, too. Smaller is cheaper, requiring less work and less water. If you do want a larger outdoor space, consider using stone instead of all or part of the lawn, and planting indigenous, drought-tolerant plants, which need minimal watering.
Irrigation systems tend to use a lot of water, so look for a rain sensor in the system of the home you are buying, and ask if the system allows zone selection that waters thirsty areas only. Shade trees will reduce the need for air conditioning in the summer. If there aren’t any trees, planting them is a smart investment.
Energy efficiency may not be high on your list – but it should be. Look for a home that meets R-2000 or Energy Star standards, which exceed the energy performance requirements of the current Canadian building codes, using about one-third less energy than a conventional home. This may not sound as attractive as a spa bathtub or granite countertops, but the savings on utility bills and the value added to your home will be worth it in the long run.
Whether you’re buying a new home from a builder or a mature one that needs some upgrading, a little research into best products can really pay off.
Energy Star appliances are more efficient by 20-30%, making them the best bang for your buck. Wood windows have the highest thermal performance, are long lasting, recyclable and made from a renewable source. Using recycled elements for construction, picking organic paints and choosing natural fibres for flooring are all smart investments.
Before you go house hunting, take the time to consider your real needs, both current and future. Yes, you want a home that looks good, but you also want one that feels good – and will for a long time, reducing your long-term costs and improving the resale value of your property when the time comes.
Now go out and find your dream home!
Sandra Rinomato is the host of HGTV’s Property Virgins, airing Mondays at 9:30 p.m. ET/10:30 p.m. PT.
