DIY Builds
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What is the perfect size house?

On average, the ideal square footage is about 600 – 700 square feet per person. That means a family of three will want a house that's at least 1,800 square feet. A family of four will want a home that's around 2,400 square feet.

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How long will a rubber flat roof last?

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

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Family Size And Plans

The size of your family plays a significant role in how big of a house you need. It’s also important to consider how many people will be living in the home in the future. Right now, a single-family home might work well for you. But if you have parents or adult children moving back in, a multigenerational home could be a better fit. Looking into the future of your family is important. For instance, you may only have one child now, but are you planning to add to your family in the coming years? Likewise, you may currently have three teenagers living at home, but will two of them be leaving for college soon? These are important things to consider as you start looking for a new home.

Home Layout And Design

For most people, the layout and design of a home is the most important aspect. In addition to the overall size, it’s important to think about how much space is allocated to each of the main living areas. For instance, you may be considering two different houses, and each one is 2,500 square feet. One home allocates more square footage to the living room, while the other home has larger bedrooms. Consider what your preferences are and whether you’re looking for more space in certain areas of the home.

Square Footage

When house hunting, you’ll find that most home listings include square footage. Visualizing the square feet of a room or house that matches your family size can help you choose the right home size. On average, the ideal square footage is about 600 – 700 square feet per person. That means a family of three will want a house that's at least 1,800 square feet. A family of four will want a home that's around 2,400 square feet.

Furniture Measurements

As you’re looking for a home, another key factor is the size of your current furnishings. You don't want to buy a house and discover that your furniture is too large for the available space. If you choose to replace what you have, or need something you don’t already own, there are inexpensive ways to furnish a home. For instance, you can visit yard sales, thrift shops or classified websites to find more affordable furniture.

Storage Space Needs

Did you know the average American home contains 300,000 items? That means storage space is essential. Make sure any homes you’re looking at have enough bedroom storage space, outdoor storage space and even kitchen storage space. More importantly, take measurements of your current home and new storage spaces to make accurate comparisons. You may also opt for rented storage space instead of storing your items at home.

Your Age And Physical Ability

Another factor to consider when hunting for a new house is your age and current physical ability. These will determine the type, layout and size of the home you purchase. If you're older or have some type of disability, an open floor plan may be your best bet. Whereas a younger, newly married couple may prefer to get a starter home.

Location, Location, Location

In the world of real estate, location is everything. This also applies when searching for your dream home. If you're looking for a bigger house with a large lot, buying a home in a suburban or rural area may be more affordable than in urban areas. The location you choose will also play a role in determining the price of the home and availability. A 7,000-square-foot home will cost less in Texas than it will in New York.

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