Choosing Your Perfect Home - Pick Two

When buying your next home, it’s crucial to balance your priorities because getting everything you want might not be feasible. In the home buying world, you often have to choose two out of three key factors: affordable price, prime location, or house size. Here’s how to approach this decision, especially if you’re considering the Virginia Beach area and nearby communities like Chesapeake or Moyock, NC.

1. Affordable Price

If budget is your top priority, you might need to compromise on either location or house size. Communities like Chesapeake and Moyock offer more affordable housing. Moyock, in particular, provides tax breaks and lower costs of living while still being within commuting distance of Hampton Roads. If you’re willing to trade proximity for a manageable mortgage, this could be the right path.

2. Prime Location

Living close to work, the oceanfront, or top-rated schools might be your top consideration. Virginia Beach is highly desirable for its beaches, vibrant community, and job opportunities, but that comes with a premium price. If location is your highest priority, you may need to accept a smaller home to stay within budget. Convenience often outweighs square footage for those seeking a dynamic coastal lifestyle.

3. House Size

Do you need ample space for a growing family, home office, or large yard? Chesapeake and Moyock shine in this area, offering larger homes on more land. You can often find spacious properties for a fraction of what a similar home would cost in Virginia Beach. If size is essential, prepare for a longer commute or less urban amenities.

Key Decision Factors

Do When weighing your options, consider these additional factors:

Family Size: Larger families may prioritize house size and yard space, especially if children need play areas or separate bedrooms.

Job Location: If your job is located near Virginia Beach, minimizing commute time by choosing a home closer to work could be worth the higher price.

Temporary vs. Final Home: If you’re purchasing a temporary home, you might be more flexible on size or even location, knowing a future move is possible. For a forever home, consider long-term needs such as school districts and community amenities.

New vs. Used Homes: Since newly constructed homes often come with modern features, energy efficiency, and builder warranties, they often offer better long-term value despite a higher initial cost compared to older homes in the used market.

Making the Decision

At the end of the day, you’ll need to focus on and rank the three main factors of price, location, and home size from most to least important based on your lifestyle and future plans. Would you rather be near the ocean, enjoy a larger home, or keep costs low? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—only the right combination for you. We’re always happy to discuss options with you and ensure that your next home is the perfect fit.