Stay on Track When Finding the Best St. Simons Island Home for Your Family
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard multiple times that today’s market trifecta of low prices, high inventory, and affordable interest rates is making this the best time to buy the St. Simons Island home you’ve always wanted. It is important, however, to prioritize several important criteria in order to make the best choice for you and your family. Discussing these items with your family and real estate agent before you begin will help you stay focused and can shorten the length of your search.
Type of home: Single-family home or condo? One-story or two? How will paying HOA dues affect your overall buying power? What type of design elements do you look for in a St. Simons Island home? Discussing these items will keep you focused on the right properties during your search.
New or existing: Yes, there is still new construction available on St. Simons Island! A new home is shiny and clean, but often carries hefty initial costs such as landscaping and window treatments. However, if considering an existing home, you need to assess its general condition which will also impact your budget.
Features: This is where it is vitally important to weigh to cost vs. benefit. Gas or electric? Landscaping, fencing, etc.? How important is a fireplace? Does the home have enough bedrooms and bathrooms to support your growing family? Would a pool be a benefit or a hindrance?
Ease of maintenance: Always ask for for a Sellers Disclosure to learn the history of any St. Simons Island home. What is the condition of the roof? The appliances? The major systems? Will you have to paint the interior or exterior and/or replace the carpeting? Be sure to factor in such costs in your budget and your negotiations.
Location: Location and lifestyle is often the most important feature for many of today’s buyers. Do you want to be close to the Village and Pier? Do you mind the 8 minute drive to the north end of St. Simons Island? Looking for a location close to school or work? Do you prefer an ocean or marsh view? A gated neighborhood?
Property tax and flood insurance: Our general rule of thumb for St. Simons Island home taxes is roughly 1% of the purchase price. However, a member of the Classic Coastal Homes group can pull the tax information for the previous year to give you a better estimate of the taxes on any home. Additionally, nearly every home on St. Simons Island will require flood insurance, but there are a few areas on the Island that do not require it.
You’ve taken the first step by reading this blog and learning more about how you can streamline the process of finding the perfect St. Simons Island home for you and your family. Now, take the next step by contacting the Classic Coastal Homes group today to get started. Amy, Dean, Patrick and Nancy are always available via phone or email to speak with you regarding your housing needs. And, please feel free to get a jump start by browsing available listings on our website: www.classiccoastalhomesgroup.com. Whether buying or selling, we stand ready to assist you and look forward to hearing from you soon!
Thanks for visiting and have a great day!
