Top 4 Things Your New Home Should Have
If there’s one thing that 2020 taught us, it’s that you can’t predict the future with complete certainty. No one would have guessed that a pandemic would bring the global economy to a halt, or that it would fundamentally change how we look at our work and home environments.
In this article, we’re going to:
- Take a brief look at how 2020 impacted our view of potential homes.
- Give a short overview of the current real estate market.
- Discuss the most important features your home should have.
We won’t be discussing subjective features, such as the number of bedrooms or the size of a kitchen. Instead, we’re specifically going address those amenities that have become major determining factors in the current and a post-pandemic environment.
How 2020 Impacted How We Look at Potential Homes
After the initial lockdown that began on 27 March 2020, we had to adapt to working from and spending more time at home. Resultantly, the benefits and flaws of our residences became clearer. Amenities that seemed unimportant before suddenly became key in determining how appealing a home could be.
One of the most significant changes that South African’s had to adapt to was the major and sudden shift to a work-from-home environment. The country has always been largely dependent on office rather than remote workers. Unsurprisingly, a survey by Giant Leap revealed that:
- 86% of employees are eager to return to the workplace.
- 70% miss office social interactions.
- 81% think remote work affects communication.
Unfortunately, it seems that South Africans may need to adapt to this new status quo. One way to do so is to ensure that your home environment is as comfortable as possible, with the necessary amenities to facilitate our new normal.
There is some good news!
South Africa’s real estate market is in a ‘buyers market’ stage. With interest rates at an all-time low, now would be an excellent time to buy your new home. To that end, let’s look at four features your potential house should have.
Separate Public and Private Spaces
If you’re thinking of buying a new house, you’ll want to consider your home’s public and private spaces. Although entertaining guests is low on our priority list due to current events, you should consider your present comfort and the future.
Public spaces like the kitchen, and dining and living room should flow smoothly from one to the other. Spaces like bedrooms, game rooms, and the TV lounge should be separate and reserved for time with family or private relaxation.
Since we’re spending so much time in our homes, it’s important to designate areas for relaxation and recovery. A few years ago, this separation wasn’t as necessary as it is now. Many families now find themselves forced to spend time with the same people 24/7. While some may consider it valuable family time, others face genuine issues:
- Blurred work-life balances.
- Increased childcare responsibilities and home-schooling.
- Massive surge in domestic violence cases.
- Mental health challenges.
Even as the world recovers from the pandemic, it’s vital to have a space where you can be alone. A healthy balance between family, work, and self-directed time is critical, and your home should reflect that.
Home Office
Once the lockdown was announced, many people had to adapt to working from home. While some businesses have and will likely continue to reopen their offices, some companies have shifted to a strictly home-based workforce.
Resultantly, having a dedicated home office is more crucial than ever before. Homeowners may choose to have an office where a guest room would have been, while some might opt for a separate entrance that maintains the privacy of the larger parts of the home.
It’s essential to evaluate your work-related needs, and just as vital to have a designated space to keep your office and home life as separate as possible. Sometimes you may find that you need two office spaces to accommodate your spouse or partner.
Whatever homeowners may desire the Idwala Property Group is ready to help turn those desires into reality.
Amenities
Do you need access to high-speed internet? Do you prefer to live in a secure gated community or an apartment complex? Should there be easy access to schools or public entertainment areas? Do online services make deliveries to the area?
These are all questions you should ask about your potential new home. While some are relatively standard, some amenities have become more critical in a post-pandemic world.
Instead of looking for a nearby store, you might want to find one who does deliveries to the area. Rather than finding a nearby school, you could allow your children to attend a top-rated facility that offers remote learning. If you’re working from home, the need for high-speed and consistent internet would likely make an area with fibre more appealing.
The traditional questions may still be important, but potential homeowners should consider current and future situations when making a decision.
Outdoor Space
Spending time outside is more important than ever. The pandemic’s impact on our daily lives is significant, but spending time outdoors can help alleviate stress and improve your mental health.
Several studies have proven the positive effects of spending time outside. That doesn’t mean that you need to risk visiting a crowded beach; an hour or two in your own garden can be just as effective. When you’re considering different houses, choose one that has an appealing outdoor space.
Pools, lounge areas, and long walkways to the natural water features allow you to commune with nature at varying degrees and help you feel more at ease. It’s also a great place to spend time with family or pets.
Conclusion
We can’t deny that the pandemic has changed what we look for and value in a new home. However, it’s essential to look for a house that’ll suit your current and future needs. Consider the interior and outdoor space and ensure that you have the right amenities to fit or complement your lifestyle.