There really is no place like home. We spend soooooo much of our lives there (we blame the rise of streaming services and our obsession with Stranger Things, just quietly).
It’s why picking the peeeeerfect suburb is just as important as the design of your new home.
And soo, without further adieu (does anyone say that anymore? If not, we’re bringing it back); here’s our top 5 things to consider when choosing where to live.
1. Safety First
Yeah, you heard us – safety first kiddos! No one wants to sleep with the good ol’ baseball bat under their bed (when you’re on edge about every creak and noise you hear during the night, having a good night’s sleep just isn’t a thing). Find yourself a friendly neighbourhood to call home – one that won’t create all the anxiety and stress that you totes don’t need in your life.
Speak with friends and family, do your research online, and hey – why not do a few drivebys to suss out the suburb?
2. Amenities, amenities, amenities!
No one wants to drive a bazillion years just to grab some milk. Seriously, who needs that stress in their life?! Make sure the suburb you choose has all the amenities you need. Research the local shopping centre, doctor, gym – you name it! If you’re a bit of an avid foodie (ALL food recommendations are always welcomed here at FHOC HQ), living close to all the bars, restaurants and/or entertainment hubs is always a vibe.
If you’ve got kids, don’t forget to check out what the local schools are like too!
3. Do we have a connection?
Oookay, don’t freak out – we’re not coming onto you. Nothing beats having a ship-shaped internet connection (that doesn’t leave you on the phone to support for yonks and yonks). Ask your fave internet provider what the connection is like in the area or ask any friends/family who live in the area what their thoughts are on their internet connection. We’d like to think we’re saving you the hassle of enduring the endless spinny wheel of death when trying to watch Netflix.
Psssst. Quick hint – jump on the NBN website and make sure the area is NBN connected!
4. I’ve been everywhere, man!
Do you jump on the train every morning to get to work? Or do you rely on local bus services to get around? How far do you want to commute to work every day? Yeah, we don’t exactly recommend living over an hour away from somewhere you have to go to every day. Ick – noooo thank you! Work aside, living within reach of friends and family is never a bad thing, especially if they’re only a short drive away.
Make sure your new home isn’t lightyears away from your regular obligations. Travel costs $$$ – and we think keeping those hard-earned dollars in your pocket instead is a pretty good idea.
5. Affordability
Choosing somewhere to live that is just a tad more affordable is a great way to securely build your first home without breaking the bank. Everyone has their dream suburb – and that’s totes okay! We’re all for helping people work towards their goals. That said, it’s supeeeer important not to get too ahead of yourself and put pressure on yourself to live in your dream suburb right now.
Remind yourself that starting out as a first home buyer is totally fine and by building your first home, you’re already nailing SO MANY EPIC goals.
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