How to Find Your Perfect Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
Searching for a home is easily one of the most exciting journeys you will ever take. But with many different factors to weigh up, such as floor plans, location, transport links and heating systems, it can quickly become stressful, with many feeling overwhelmed and not knowing where to begin.
Whether you are a first-time buyer, downsizing or finding a space for your growing family, having a clear plan and knowing exactly what you’re looking for can make all the difference.
To help you navigate the process, we have put together a step-by-step guide on what to consider before you start searching, what to look for during a viewing and how to make sure your new home is the one for you.
What to Consider Before you Start Searching
Before you start booking viewings and visiting properties, it helps to narrow down exactly what you need from a property, so you don’t waste your time viewing homes that won’t work for you.
Here are some things to consider before you start searching.
Rooms, Layout and Storage
It’s not just about the number of bedrooms you need, it’s also important to look at the layout and how the space can work for you. It’s valuable to think about the following:
Do you need a dedicated office for working from home, or a spare room that can adapt over time?
Do you prefer an open-plan kitchen and dining areas, or separate defined rooms?
Do you need built-in storage or separate utility spaces?
Do secondary bedrooms fit double beds or just single beds?
Gusto Homes Standard: Our homes are designed with practical living in mind and are built around spacious, open-plan kitchen and dining areas, ideal for family life and hosting. We prioritise generous bedroom sizes, ensuring every room is a functional, comfortable space.
Outdoor Space and Plot Size
Outdoor space can vary hugely between properties, especially on new developments. When evaluating the plot and garden, consider:
How much space is there surrounding the house? Ensure you aren’t overlooked or cramped against neighbouring plots.
Does the garden allow enough space for children to play or is there enough room for your dog? Consider how the sun falls during the afternoon and evening and whether the space allows for outdoor dining and gardening.
Does the property come with a driveway or off-road parking? Is there enough space for multiple vehicles if needed?
Gusto Homes Standard: Unlike many new-build developments, Gusto Homes prioritises generous plot sizes. Our developments feature good-sized secure gardens and private driveways.
Location and Transport Links
Location is all about daily convenience and has a real impact on how easy it is to get to where you need to be. Here’s some important things to bear in mind:
Do you have easy access to key roads like the A1, A46 and the A52? Do you require rail links for travel?
What amenities are nearby? Look for schools, village shops, supermarkets, GP surgeries, pharmacies and local pubs.
Is it important to you to have access to nature? Having countryside walks, public footpaths or green spaces nearby adds long-term value to where you live.
Gusto Homes Standard: Our developments in Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire offer a quiet, semi-rural environment while keeping road links and town amenities within easy reach.
Check Energy Performance and Technology
Running costs are just as important as the purchase price. Looking into energy efficiency early on can save you a considerable amount in household bills.
EPC Ratings and Running Costs
Check the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before booking a viewing. Homes rated A or B cost significantly less to heat and maintain than a score of C or below.
Modern Heating Systems
Find out how the house is heated. Older gas boilers are expensive to run and will eventually need replacing. Look for properties with:
Air Source Heat Pumps: Efficient, electric heating that replaces traditional gas boilers.
Triple Glazing: Keeps heat inside, reduces outside noise, and prevents drafts.
High Insulation Levels: Keeps the house warm in winter and cool in summer.
Solar Power and EV Charging
Check if solar PV panels or electric vehicle chargers are already installed. Installing these features later can be costly, so buying a home with them pre-fitted is a major advantage.
Gusto Homes Standard:Our homes include triple glazing, air source heat pumps, solar panels, and high insulation levels as standard.
What to Check During a Property Viewing
When walking around a property, look past the furnishings and focus on the quality of the build.
Natural Light and Solar Gain
Notice how light enters the main living areas. Large, well-positioned windows make a space feel brighter and help heat the home naturally on sunny days.
Air Quality and Temperature
Notice how the house feels as you walk through. Is the temperature even across all rooms, or are there cold spots and drafts? Modern homes use ventilation systems to keep air fresh without losing heat.
Build Quality and Finishes
Take a close look at the details such as quality of the joinery, doors, and flooring, kitchen appliances and bathroom fittings, external brickwork, roofing, and window frames.
Ready to Start Your Search?
If you want to get a feel for our community focused developments and high-quality Gusto homes, find out more here!
