Navigating Life's Transitions: Finding Your Next Home

Our housing needs change with different stages of your life and evolve over time. That tiny apartment that once symbolized freedom when you left college might feel cramped for a growing family, and a spacious house with empty bedrooms could become more hassle than it's worth for empty nesters. As life shifts and transitions occur, they often spark the decision to buy a new home. While your home-buying journey may not look like your neighbor’s or friend’s, broad trends can help you understand what to keep in mind as you house hunt. No one wants to regret their home purchase, and taking the time now to think about exactly what you need can save a lot of heartache later.

A Home for Newlyweds and Partners

The commitment of marriage or partnership has historically propelled individuals into homeownership. Today, changing demographics have delayed the median age for marriage and home buying to the late 20s and early 30s, predominantly among millennials. Regardless of age, certain considerations are crucial as you embark on your first home purchase together.

Affordability Leads the Way

There’s no doubt about it—with high student loan debt and two recessions in the rearview mirror, many millennials feel that the deck is stacked against them when it comes to homeownership. And it’s not just millennials—Americans of all ages are facing both financial challenges and a tough housing market. Yet, the current low mortgage rate climate offers a silver lining. While aspiring for a dream home is natural, embracing the concept of a starter home can yield significant advantages. Most first-time buyers in their 20s choose homes approximately 1,600 square feet, and this size increases as buyers enter their 30s. It's only in the 40s that the average size surpasses 2,000 square feet.

Chosen carefully, a starter home can be a great investment as well as a launchpad for your life together. Building equity alongside savings positions you to upgrade when the time is right.

Capitalizing on Low Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates are historically low, making now the perfect time to purchase your first home together. A lower interest rate can help you to get the best home for your money by saving you tens of thousands of dollars over the course of your loan.

But what if both halves of a couple don’t have good credit? You still have options. First, boosting a credit score can be easier than you think—simply paying your credit cards down below 30% of your limit can go a long way. But if that’s not enough to boost your score, you might consider taking out the mortgage in only the better-scoring partner’s name. The downside is that applying for a mortgage with only one income will reduce your qualification amount. And if you take that route, make sure you understand the legal and financial implications for both parties should the relationship end.

Tackling Credit Challenges

Facing credit challenges? Improving your credit score can be simpler than you think—reducing credit card balances to below 30% of the limit can make a notable difference. In cases where credit is stronger for one partner, consider applying for the mortgage in their name. However, remember that relying on a single income reduces your qualification amount and requires a clear understanding of potential implications if the relationship changes.

Lifestyle and Commute Considerations

Living together involves compromise, and identifying crucial home features early is essential. Choosing a home with the right number of bathrooms, enough closet space, and even the size and layout of the kitchen can make a big difference in your day-to-day life and relationship.

Commuting patterns, hobbies, and interests should all align with your chosen community.

A Home for Growing Families

The arrival of children brings about swift changes. A once-spacious 1,600 square foot home can suddenly feel cramped with active kids and pets. Whether your family has grown or the kids need more space, upgrading to a home that accommodates your evolving needs is crucial.

The Role of School Districts

For parents, prioritizing their children's education often surpasses the need for extra space. School districts play a pivotal role, with 53% of parents considering them a significant factor in their home buying decisions. While superior schools often correspond to higher home prices, many buyers are willing to trade some space for a favorable school district.

Lifestyle and Space

As your family expands, living space becomes paramount. Teenagers seeking socializing spots and quiet areas for parents necessitate thoughtful planning. Layout matters too, with open plans offering convenience, especially for parents multitasking while keeping an eye on their kids.

Functionality and Future Growth

Evaluate each room's role in your daily life. Anticipate needs—pantries for hungry teenagers or well-designed laundry rooms for busy families. Prioritize must-haves, as one home may not fulfill every desire. Consult with us to explore options within your budget.

A Home for Empty Nesters

As children leave the nest, downsizing becomes a common choice. Empty nesters often seek smaller, more manageable homes. While buyers under 55 tend to trade up, those over 55 frequently opt for smaller, less costly properties.

Prioritizing Maintenance and Lifestyle

Why are you thinking about moving? Identifying those early in the process can help you narrow down your search. For example, do you want to have space for a garden, or would you prefer to avoid dealing with lawn care altogether? How much home maintenance are you willing to deal with? In many cases, a newer home will require less maintenance than an older one and a smaller one will take less time to clean. You may also want to consider townhomes, condos, or other living situations that don’t require quite as much upkeep.

Living Your Dream

Retirement creates new opportunities. Tailor your home choice to your passions—living near a golf course, a beach, or a vibrant downtown. And with more time to spend as you wish, proximity to a supportive community of friends and family is priceless.

Aging in Place

As age catches up, accessibility becomes paramount. Consider ranch-style single-story homes or adaptable spaces. As we say, location, location, location - it really matters to get easy access to necessities and support from family and friends.

Finding the Perfect Fit

As life changes, each milestone causes an evaluation of your housing options. The median homeownership duration in the U.S. stands at around 13 years.

Guiding You on Your Journey

One thing is for sure—life never stands still.

And your housing needs won’t, either.

In the United States, the median duration of homeownership hovers around 13 years. That means many of us will cycle through a few very different homes as we move through different life stages. Whatever stage you’re embarking on next, we’re here to help. You may focus on the precise area you want to live in and the type of property that is best for you with the aid of our knowledge of the surrounding areas, costs, and housing stock.

We have experience working with property purchasers at every stage of life, so we are aware of the precise inquiries you should make. Whether it's your first or fifth home, buying one is a significant choice, but we're here to support you every step of the journey.

Embracing Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Housing

Call Teresa Ryan today, at 630-276-7575 for expert advice and guidance when you buy your first home in the Chicago suburbs!

Get a copy of our Home Buyer Guide written by Teresa Ryan for Chicagoland home buyers, visit: FREE Home Buyer's Guide