Homebuyers most often begin their house hunting with a long list of must-have features. They typically hope to find their new home in the best location, at the lowest possible price, and with lots of modern upgrades.
Once buyers start looking at the available homes within their price range, however, they tend to make practical compromises that they know they can live with. Location vs. square footage is often the first compromise buyers must consider. Living closer to the city center might mean buying a smaller home than what can be purchased for the same price farther out.
Buyers with school-age children tend to want a big backyard but, depending on the cost of land, they may have to rethink just how large is large enough for an outdoor play area and a swing set. One compromise might be looking for a home with a smaller backyard that's within walking distance of a park.
The architectural style of the house is the most important feature for s...