BEFORE YOU SAY “YES!” TO THAT HOUSE

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a house or neighbourhood in the suburbs. We all have what we look out for and the truth remains that you can never have it all. There are however, certain basic things one should never overlook when making a choice within the suburbs:

Security

It is very important to choose a suburb, neighbourhood or compound that’s relatively safe, especially for couples with children. When my hubby and I were looking for a house, though we had in mind our budget limits, a secure neighbourhood was top on our list. We were particular about a house with controlled access (fence and ate). You wouldn’t want to see your kids riding their bikes or playing in the streets but in an enclosed compound. There are some suburb neighborhoods that are just not safe, especially for a young family with little children, so you would want to consider this seriously before making that choice.

                                                         

Clean Environment

Never underestimate the importance of a relatively clean environment. It will keep you and your family away from the hospital for a long time. While searching for a house, we were taken to this very lovely house, but we rejected the house because of the environment. The road leading to the house had all kinds of waste spilling out from different sewage pipes; it was such a huge mess. When we spoke to some of the occupants of the compound, they advised us not to risk it, as majority of them were on the verge of parking out of the vicinity. We were informed that in the evenings/nights, the smell around was very offensive. You would not want to find yourself in such an unhealthy environment so make your findings properly.

Accessibility

Especially for car owners, you don’t want to stay in an area where you would have to be visiting the mechanic every day or a place where your visitors have to park their cars miles away and trek/take a bike just to get to your doorstep….lol. The roads don’t have to be like the express way, but it should be motorable enough for easy passage. You don’t even want a place where cars or keke or bikes stop entering at certain hours of the day or a neighbourhood where it could be a herculean task getting any means of transportation. You also don’t want to live in a neighbourhood that is very lonely. We have this family friend that got this very beautiful house in a very lonely street, somewhere in Kubwa axis of Abuja. It was really lonely; in fact, they shared boundary with a thick bush and rock. In less than 6months armed robbers stated harassing the neighbourhood and they were forced to pack out even before the expiration of the term of their lease.

Availability of Water.

There is nothing like a house with water. I mean, if an area doesn’t have light, one can always use generator, but a house that doesn’t have water is not to be considered at all because life can really be miserable. Without water, everything is at a standstill. You can’t cook, wash plates or clothes, clean the house, flush the toilet or even have a bath. Water indeed is life. Before you say “yes” to that house, make sure there is constant water running especially for a family. I have had my fair share of experiences of living in a house without water, trust me, its not something you wish for even your worst enemy. It can really be frustrating having to depend on water vendors (Mai Ruwas’…as they are popularly called). Ask questions and verify answers given by agents, because most of agents are just after their agency fee, leaving you to face the reality on ground. Water is life, don’t compromise this.

Affordability

Some houses even in the suburb are just so ridiculously expensive. When you hear the amount, you just wonder if the house is built with precious stones. Don’t be in such a hurry to settle for a house that’s expensive because you are desperate. Take your time, you will definitely find something affordable and just perfect. I am talking out of experience. Especially for young couples who are about getting married and desperately need a house…RELAX! The truth is, it’s not just about paying the rent now, its about RENEWING IT! When we were "house-hunting", w found this very lovely house. Hubby was already getting frustrated and wanted to settle for it but I didn’t bulge. He tried to convince me but the price just didn’t make sense to me as it was way beyond our budget. Finally, we got to find another house that was just what we wanted for a much lesser amount. Don’t be in a hurry; don’t let any agent confuse you. Know and stick to what you want!  Shine your eye! LOL.

The House Itself

We all know how some landlords/builders are just out to make money, so the finishing of the house is not of importance to them. Some houses are just badly built; the tiles are poorly fixed, the walls are soaking water, no provision for adequate ventilation, the plumbing and electrical works are badly done, everything is just not right. Please, don’t be in a hurry to pay for that house. Carry out proper inspection, view things for yourself, point out any aspect which requires extra attention before you make payment and move in. Some agents will mount pressure on you to close the deal so they can get their fees. Never make that mistake cos more often than not, once you move in, you are absolutely on your own…lol.

A Serene Neighborhood Devoid of “Drama”

As much as possible, avoid a compound/area that is noisy and "African Magic" drama-free. How would you know you may ask? There are some compounds you enter and the body language of the existing occupants will not just seem right.  Do your own background checks and assessment…ask questions from other neighbours, I assure you, somehow you should be able to gather one or two information about the compound and neigbourhood.

You want to live in a suburb/neigbourhood where you come home after a hard days job and relax and possibly interact with friendly and lovely neighbours. You can achieve this. 

I hope you find these practical points useful in making that choice of your dream neighbourhood/suburb.