If you are handy with tools, you may be willing to consider a house that needs work (what real estate ads call a "handyman's special" or "fixer upper"). Or, you may insist on a house that is in perfect condition. Most home buyers fall somewhere between these two extremes, and even finicky buyers often decide to accept some imperfections when they see the price of perfection.

   New houses are typically clustered together in areas were the sizes, styles, and prices of the homes are much the same. New homes are likely to have more efficient heating systems, may be better insulated, and should cost less to maintain than older homes. Older homes, on the other hand, may be larger, more individual, or made with better quality materials.

   For many people, the location of the home they buy is their most important consideration; for many others, location may not be a real choice. You probably know already whether you will be shopping for a home in an urban, suburban, or rural area. You may already know exactly what neighborhood you want to live in.

   To simplify things, make a list of pros and cons about each type of home.  Take a look around some neighborhoods you might like to live in and when your ready for help, just call on Linda.