Moving to another country whether for living or doing business is a big decision. Certainly, it is a big financial decision you’ll ever make. So, assuming you had everything planned out, and successfully passed major obstacles – when the time comes to make an offer on the house in Croatia, how do you actually know that you are buying the “right house“?
Ask yourself these four questions first.
1. Does the house meet all your requirements?
Are you looking for residential property in Croatia, or a new investment opportunity? Property buyers always know what type of house fits them perfectly. If you haven’t made up your mind yet, make a list of things your future house must-have. With that list, you will be able to cross-reference easier every house you toured.
2. Does it have the potential?
Even if you’ve found a house that checks off your most must-haves, there will likely be some element of compromise.
The next thing you’ll want to ask yourself — is there potential to resolve some of those compromises over time?
For example, do those compromises include saving up to turn a small bedroom into a home office or to redo other home spaces? When thinking about a home’s potential, you should consider how much work you’ll have to put into it in order to make yourself happy. Then, ask yourself if that amount of work is realistic for you.
As a general rule, aesthetic changes are considered more manageable than structural or functional ones.
3. Do you like the neighborhood?
When you purchase a home, you’re also agreeing to become part of the neighborhood.
Before you make an offer on a home you’ll want to take a long, hard look at the surrounding area and see if you’re happy with the amenities it offers, as well as the overall feel.
We recommend taking a drive around the area before you submit an offer. Be on the lookout for essentials like the closest bank and grocery store. Plus, keep an eye out for any fun hotspots like nearby restaurants and bars. You may also want to do some follow-up research on things like the quality of the school district if you have or plan to have kids.
4. Can you picture yourself in that home for a longer period?
Whether you’re looking to buy your forever home or your just-for-now home, purchasing real estate is an investment.
With that in mind, you’ll want to make sure that any home you consider purchasing is a good fit for you now and for the foreseeable future.
Ask yourself: when you think about your future, do you see yourself in this home for at least the next five years?
Keep that timeframe in mind as you look at potential listings. In the event that you’re planning for any life changes like a marriage or new family members, it may be best to factor those plans into your home search.