--- title: 5 Tips for Finding the Right Home description: Finding the right home can be challenging, but if you follow these 5 tips the process can be far easier and more rewarding! image: https://info.sdhda.org/hubfs/Picture3.png --- [![South Dakota Housing](https://info.sdhda.org/hubfs/SDHDA_July2019/Images/hero-logo.png)](https://www.sdhda.org) - Programs - [Homeownership](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership) - [First-Time Homebuyer](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/first-time-homebuyer) - [Repeat Homebuyer Program](https://www.sdhda.org//homeownership/repeat-homebuyer-program) - [Governor's House Program](https://www.sdhda.org//homeownership/governors-house-program) - [Home Improvement](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/home-improvement) - [Downpayment Assistance](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/downpayment-assistance) - [Tools](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/tools) - [My SDHDA Loan](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/my-sdhda-loan) - [Lenders](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/lenders) - 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[Governor's House Program](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/governors-house-program) - [Home Improvement](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/home-improvement) - [Downpayment Assistance](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/downpayment-assistance) - [Tools](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/tools) - [My SDHDA Loan](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/my-sdhda-loan) - [Lenders](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/lenders) - [Realtors](https://www.sdhda.org/homeownership/realtors) - [Renting](https://www.sdhda.org/renting/for-renters) - [Rental Assistance](https://www.sdhda.org/for-renters/rental-assistance) - [Rental Housing Search](https://www.sdhda.org/for-renters/rental-housing-search) - [Do I Qualify](https://www.sdhda.org/for-renters/do-i-qualify) - [Affordable Rental Housing Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.sdhda.org/for-renters/affordable-rental-housing-frequently-asked-questions) - [Fair Housing and Your Rights](https://www.sdhda.org/for-renters/fair-housing-and-your-rights) - 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[Education and Training](https://www.sdhda.org/property-management/education-and-training) - [Fair Housing and Legal](https://www.sdhda.org/property-management/fair-housing-and-legal) - [Property Management Resources](https://www.sdhda.org/property-management/management-resources) - [Program Compliance](https://www.sdhda.org/property-management/program-compliance) - [Business Partners](https://www.sdhda.org/property-management/business-partners) - [Social Programs](https://www.sdhda.org/social-programs/paint-south-dakota) - [Paint-South Dakota](https://www.sdhda.org/social-programs/paint-south-dakota) - [Continuum Of Care](https://www.sdhda.org/social-programs/continuum-of-care) - [Emergency Solutions Grants Program](https://www.sdhda.org/social-programs/emergency-solutions-grants-program) - [Section 811 PRA Program](https://www.sdhda.org/social-programs/section-811-pra-program) - [About](https://www.sdhda.org/about/about-sdhda-south-dakota-housing-development-authority) - [About SDHDA](https://www.sdhda.org/about/about-sdhda-south-dakota-housing-development-authority) - [Disclosure Reports](https://www.sdhda.org/about/disclosure-reports) - [Investors](https://www.sdhda.org/investors/liquidity-reports) - [Liquidity Reports](https://www.sdhda.org/investors/liquidity-reports) - [Financial Reports](https://www.sdhda.org/investors/financial-reports) - [Annual Reports](https://www.sdhda.org/investors/annual-reports) - [Municipal Advisor Disclosure](https://www.sdhda.org/investors/municipal-advisor-disclosure) Your source for expert information on housing in South Dakota # 5 Tips for Finding the Right Home ![Picture3](https://info.sdhda.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Picture3.png?width=974&name=Picture3.png) House hunting isn’t your everyday shopping experience. While it’s more exciting than window shopping or trying on new clothes, finding the right home takes a lot more research and commitment. **Here are five things to pay attention to in order to find the right house.**   ## 1. Leave Some Room to Grow As time goes on, spaces get tighter and tighter. When you move into your new home, leave some room to grow. Whether you’re planning on starting a family, adopting some pets, or you plan on taking your latest hobby more seriously, some extra room in your house goes a long way.   That being said, bigger isn’t always better. Make sure you find a happy medium and have an idea of how much room you’d need in your home.   ## 2. Location Everyone’s heard the real estate moto “Location. Location. Location.” We’re not here to preach at length but… location is important. Here are some questions to ask yourself before moving: - How’s your commute effected? - Is it close to restaurants? Shopping? Schools? - Is the neighborhood noisy? Safe?   **Finding the right house also means finding the right neighborhood.**   ## 3. Buy with Your Eyes, Not Your Heart Wouldn’t it be great to own a beautiful mansion? Or finally have that huge backyard you’ve always dreamed of? While both of those would be great, it’s important to be realistic about your home. Don’t let your emotions get ahold of your buying experience. You won’t regret buying a house if you base it on practicality.   ## 4. Do an Inspection Nothing gives a buyer more peace of mind than doing a home inspection, and professionally examining your home is well worth the investment. Many housing problems aren’t easily seen without trained eyes. Alleviate any fears or doubts with a second opinion and home inspection.   ## 5. Environmental Factors There are plenty of environmental factors to consider before buying your next home. One of the most important concerns is if the house is in a flood zone. Flooding can devastate a house and cost a pretty penny. You’ll also want to take into consideration where your windows will face. How much direct sunlight your house gets can affect its temperature immensely. Your house’s position can also affect your landscaping and lawn, depending on how much shade and sunlight you get. Keep these tips into consideration before finding the home that’s right for you. 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