Consider the Commute Before Saying “OK” to the House

Kimberly Bean
Kimberly Bean
Published on March 10, 2017

If your commute to work takes 25 minutes, congratulations! You’re average, says a 2009 study by the United States Census Bureau. The daily commute is a very real part of life for most Americans, but it’s something they seldom consider when they’re shopping for a new home.

We know it’s easy to get distracted by an amazing kitchen or a beautiful backyard, but now is your chance to cut the time it takes you to get to and from work. As you choose your new neighborhood, keep these considerations in mind.

Consider this

It’s a safe bet that most people are not looking to increase their commute time when they buy a new house. The more time you spend on the road, the less time you have to enjoy your home and family.

You also need to consider gas prices. They’re not as likely to decrease as they are to increase, so the longer your commute, the higher your monthly fuel expenses will be.

Want to know how long the commute actually is? Make the drive before you commit to purchasing the house.

Road conditions, freeways, and highways

According to a study commissioned by the Arizona Department of Transportation, a freeway through a region can actually have a positive impact on home values in the area. It also found that homes adjacent to the freeways are worth less than those that are further away. If you’re deciding between neighborhoods, a home in a community with a freeway may hold its value better than one in an area without a freeway, so long as the home isn’t directly adjacent to the freeway.

If you’re thinking about buying in a rural area, remember that weather can impede your commute.

If you don’t drive

The location of your home becomes even more important if you rely on public transportation to get to work. The proximity of the home to the bus, trains, and other modes of public transportation should be carefully considered. You don’t want to end up with an even worse commute!

Chuck the commute

You’ll get the ideal commute if you work from home. Nothing compares to that short trek down the hall to your home office! If your employer offers a telecommute option, consider taking advantage of it, even on a part-time basis.

There is a lot to consider when you’re buying a house, and location is one of the most important qualities because it has a direct impact on your quality of life.

Waldorf MD Homes for Sale and Real Estate Services in Southern Maryland. You now have a search engine to help you with your Southern Maryland home search! And I’m ready to provide you with a custom home valuation if you’re considering selling your home. Let’s connect to discuss how I can help you. Contact Kimberly Bean at 301-440-1309

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