From Location to Layout: What to Look for When Buying a Home

1. Initial considerations: What to look for when buying a home?

Starting a home search can feel overwhelming – after all, there’s a lot to consider! The best approach is to set clear priorities early on, so you know where you can compromise and where you can’t.

Budget, local market, and resale value

Your budget is the foundation of your search. It will shape your choice of location as well as the type of property you can afford. Before you begin, work out two main figures:

• Your ideal budget – what you’re comfortable spending
• Your maximum stretch – what you’d pay for the right home

Property values vary significantly across the country. In South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, for example, you’ll usually find more space for your money than in and around London. Though even within the region, there’s variation between Sheffield, Chesterfield, and smaller villages.

It’s also smart to think ahead to resale. Research the local property market to see whether the area is likely to hold or increase its value. Locations with strong transport links, new investment, or growing communities tend to hold value better over time.

Location, community, and amenities

Where you live will shape your lifestyle just as much as the property itself. Ask yourself:

• Is it close to family, friends, or your workplace?
• Are there good schools, shops, and services nearby?
• How accessible is it by car, public transport, or on foot?
• Is the area lively with regular events, or quiet and peaceful – and which do you prefer?
• Does it suit your walkability / accessibility needs?
• Are there parks, green spaces, or trails within easy reach?
• Are there upcoming developments that could change the character of the area?
• Does the neighbourhood feel safe, welcoming, and like somewhere you belong?

Remember to be honest with yourself about your deal-breakers. If you’re a light sleeper, avoid properties near tramlines, pubs, or nightlife. And if daily convenience matters most, a lack of nearby shops, schools, or reliable transport could quickly become a frustration.

Property type, size, and space

After you’ve set your budget and chosen a location, the next step is to decide the minimum amount of space you need – now and in the years ahead. Think about:

• House or flat – access, privacy, maintenance, noise levels, and other key factors
• Bedrooms and bathrooms – enough for your household now, with room to grow if needed
• Extra rooms – a home office, playroom, hobby room, dining space, or utility area
• Guests – whether you’ll need a spare room or a flexible space for visitors
• Storage – cupboards, lofts, garages, and garden sheds can make a big difference
• Future plans – children growing older, partners moving in, or family size changing
• Pets – whether you’ll need extra space indoors or a secure outdoor area

These choices always tie back to your budget, and space is often where compromises are made. If an extra room isn’t affordable, consider creative solutions – for example, converting a loft or using a garden room as a home office.

Heating, insulation, and energy ratings

Now you’ve settled on the type of property and location, the next question is: how comfortable and affordable will it be to live in? Energy efficiency, especially when it comes to heating in the colder months, has a huge influence on running costs.

Always check the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before committing to a property, which shows how well the home retains heat and gives you an estimate of future energy bills. To avoid disappointment, you may even decide on a minimum rating before you start booking viewings.

• Older homes often come with charm and character, but may need upgrades such as double glazing, loft insulation, or a modern boiler. They’re ideal for buyers who are happy to invest time and money into improvements.
• New builds, in contrast, must meet strict efficiency standards. They often feature double or triple glazing, high-grade insulation, efficient heating systems, and sometimes even solar panels. For many, this means peace of mind and lower bills from day one.

Tip: Even if the property ticks every other box, a poor EPC rating could mean higher monthly costs and future upgrade expenses – something worth factoring into your budget.

3. Cosmetic details: What to buy for a new home?

This stage is all about what you will need to buy – or change – to make the house truly feel like home. Some properties are move-in ready, while others require upgrades, fixes, or personal touches. Deciding how much work you’re prepared to take on will help you choose wisely.

Interior personalisation

Neutral décor is often easier to work with, giving you the chance to add personality through paint, furniture, and accessories. Homes with bold colours, lots of wallpaper, or older fittings might need more time and budget to make your own.

Key things to check:

• Flooring – Are the carpets or floors in good condition, or will you need to replace them?
• Furniture fit – Will your current sofas, beds, wardrobes, or appliances work in the new space, or will you need new ones?
• Access – Can larger furniture fit through doors, hallways, or staircases?
• Upgrades – Is there scope to add smart home features or more energy-efficient technology?
• Fixtures – Confirm what the seller is leaving, as some may take items like light fittings, skirting boards, or curtain poles you expected to remain.

Exterior personalisation

The garden and outdoor areas also affect how at home you feel. Think about how much maintenance you’re comfortable with and whether you prefer a ready-made space or a long-term project.

Costs and considerations might include:

• Outdoor furniture and lighting
• Landscaping or planting beds
• Creating privacy with fencing, hedges, or screens
• Repairing or expanding the driveway
• Improving rendering, the roof, or other exterior finishes

Potential for renovation

Even if you’re not planning big changes right away, it’s reassuring to know your options. Features like loft conversions, garage extensions, or conservatories can add both space and value. Just be sure to check planning permissions and local restrictions before committing.

Other things to remember when viewing a property

Alongside your own preferences, deal breakers, and potential compromises, keep an eye on the following practical details during viewings:

• Test doors and windows for ease of use, double glazing, and security
• Check taps for water pressure, how long it takes for hot water, and for leaks
• Find out the age of the boiler and if the central heating works
• Test light switches and power sockets, check for discolouration / damage
• Inspect walls, floors, and brickwork for cracks or damp
• Look for missing or loose tiles, signs of water pooling, and blocked gutters
• Examine the garden condition and if large trees could pose a structural risk
• Assess how the street lighting will impact security and comfort