If you’re like many people, you already know that you’d love living in DC Ranch – but finding the perfect home is another matter. There’s a wide variety of home styles within the community, and each home has its own amenities and quirks, so how do you find one that’s just right for you? This guide gives you five tips that’ll help you find the perfect place in DC Ranch.
5 Tips for Finding the Perfect Home in DC Ranch
Check out these five tips that’ll help you zero in on the ideal place to live in this fabulous Scottsdale community:
- Consider where you’ll be five years from now
- Create a list of needs, wants and “don’t wants”
- Check the drive time
- Spend some time in each neighborhood (and talk to people who live here)
- Don’t get caught up on cosmetic issues
Here’s a closer look at each.
DC Ranch House-Hunting Tip #1: Consider Where You’ll Be 5 Years From Now
If your life may change significantly in the next five or ten years, you need a house that can accommodate whatever comes your way. Whether your family size will change, you anticipate adopting pets, your parents may come live with you, or you spot any other changes on the horizon, take them into consideration when you’re looking at homes. The last thing you want to do is buy a home and, after a few years of living in it, find that it’s no longer a good fit for your lifestyle. (And it’s not just about the hassle of moving – you also need time to build equity in your home!)
Think about the ways your life may change, from retirement to the number of people who may live with you, before you proceed to the following section.
Related: 7 things you need to do before you close on a new home
DC Ranch House-Hunting Tip #2: Make a List of Needs, Wants and “Don’t Wants”
To help you focus your search, make a list of everything you need in a home – and be realistic. After you compile your list of needs, add in your wants; these are items that would be nice to have but aren’t strictly necessary. Finally, make a note of anything you absolutely don’t want in a home. This third category is important because it can help you rule out properties that might otherwise seem like good options.
Some items that might be on your list include:
- A home office
- Proximity to schools
- A big backyard
- A short commute
Let your real estate agent know what’s on all three of these lists. That way, they can help you eliminate homes that don’t make the grade so you can make a short list of those that do.
Related: Should you waive contingencies to get your offer accepted?
DC Ranch House-Hunting Tip #3: Check the Drive Time
In DC Ranch, there are four distinct neighborhoods – and each has its own amenities and feel. But one thing they all share is that they’re close to work centers, schools, and shopping. That means that no matter where you live in DC Ranch, you won’t have to spend a lot of time in the car if you’re sticking to the local area.
However, you still need to check the commute times from the neighborhoods you’re interested in; see how long it’ll take you to get to work or use other amenities in the area that you frequent.
DC Ranch House-Hunting Tip #4: Spend Some Time in Each Neighborhood (and Talk to People Who Live Here)
When you narrow down your options to a few neighborhoods, spend some time in each one. Drive around, walk or bike the streets, and visit local businesses. And be sure to talk to people who live in the area; they can tell you what it’s like to live there on a day-to-day basis.
You might also want to talk to your real estate agent about the history of each neighborhood. Understanding how an area has changed over time can give you a better sense of what it’s like to live there now – and what it might be like in the future.
Related: 9 tips to help you relocate to Scottsdale
DC Ranch House-Hunting Tip #5: Don’t Get Caught Up on Cosmetic Issues
After you find a home that meets your needs in a neighborhood you love, remember to look past cosmetic issues. A fresh coat of paint and some new fixtures can go a long way – and they’re usually much less expensive than you think. The most important thing is to find a property that’s structurally sound, designed in a way you can live with, and is located in a neighborhood you think you’ll enjoy.
Are You Selling a Home in DC Ranch?
Thinking about selling your home in DC Ranch? Call us at 602-694-3200 to find out how we’ll market it to all the right buyers. If you’re also looking for a new home, we’d love show you any listing in the community. Let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll be happy to search for something that’s a perfect match for your needs.
While you’re here, check out our:
- Country Club Village homes for sale
- Desert Camp Village homes for sale
- Desert Parks Village homes for sale
- Silverleaf Village homes for sale
Don Matheson
Realtor | Founder
The Matheson Team
RE/MAX Fine Properties
21020 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
602-694-3200
