Property features you think you need, but might never use
While some property features might sound like must-haves, REMAX Southern Africa encourages buyers to focus on those they will actually use.
When searching for a new home, it is easy for the wish list to grow. A swimming pool, large garden or spare bedroom might all sound appealing, but once the novelty wears off, some of these features may end up being used far less than anticipated.
Adrian Goslett, CEO and regional director of REMAX Southern Africa, encourages buyers to think carefully about how they live and which features will genuinely add value to their everyday lives before paying a premium for these supposed ‘must-haves’.
‘It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a home and focus on features that look good on paper. However, buyers need to ask themselves whether they will actually use these features often enough to justify the additional cost.’
To help buyers decide which features they are likely to use, REMAX Southern Africa highlights some common features that homeowners may end up using less frequently than expected.
A swimming pool
There is nothing quite like spending a hot December day lounging by the pool, feet in the water and an ice lolly in hand. But before picturing every weekend spent poolside, consider how often you are realistically likely to use it.
Pools require regular cleaning, chemicals and maintenance. If yours is a household that enjoys entertaining outdoors or has children who will use the pool regularly, the costs may be worthwhile. However, if you are only going to use it a handful of times a year, the expense might be difficult to justify.
A huge garden
While a large garden offers plenty of space for children, pets and entertaining, bigger does not always mean better. Larger gardens require more mowing, watering and general upkeep, all of which take time and can add to monthly expenses.
‘You need to ask yourself what you actually want to do with the space. If you have children or pets, enjoy gardening or regularly entertain outdoors, a large garden could be worthwhile. But remember that sometimes a smaller, low-maintenance outdoor area can offer all the benefits you need without spending your weekends behind a lawnmower,’ Goslett explains.
A spare bedroom
Are you worried about where your in-laws will stay when they come to town? Or perhaps that university friend who now lives abroad has been talking about visiting? In these situations, having a dedicated guest bedroom might seem essential. But it is worth considering how often those guests actually visit.
Goslett notes that paying more for an additional bedroom that stands empty for most of the year may not be the best use of your budget. A home office with a sofa bed, a multifunctional room or even occasional stays in nearby accommodation could prove more affordable than paying for an extra bedroom that is rarely used.
‘My advice for buyers is to focus less on what their dream home is supposed to have and more on what suits the way they live every day. A shorter wish list could not only make the property search easier, but also help them avoid paying extra for features they will rarely use,’ Goslett concludes.
If you are unsure which features will suit your needs, contact your local REMAX agent, who can help you narrow down your wish list and find a home that not only fits your budget but also complements your lifestyle.
