Match Your Property Type to Your Lifestyle

by Ann Hayward 05/30/2021

Everyone's ideal home is different. Age, family size, budget and location all factor into the home buying process. Here's a brief look at the types of properties that attract different people.

Apartments

Apartments are usually a stepping stone for young professionals as they save up for a home. They are also convenient for people who move often and don't want to go through the hassle of buying and selling a house. Having maintenance services, various lease options and on-site amenities are strong selling points. Location will play the most prominent role in rent prices and demand.

Ranch-Style Homes & Smaller Houses

Single-story homes, condos and townhomes make solid starter homes for young professionals and couples. If the home is in a reputable school district and/or close to shopping centers and major roadways, it will attract buyers of all ages. Two houses with the same design and square footage will command very different prices and interest depending on the location.

Homes with Large Yards

These types of homes are ideal for families with kids and/or pets. Older buyers who enjoy privacy and quiet will also appreciate the acreage. Many buyers will gladly choose a smaller house with a large yard than the inverse.

Larger Homes

Higher end homes will mostly attract buyers far into their careers who have significant savings. Depending on the location, these homes will often meet with either high demand or stay on the market for a while. High-end homes sell best in a high-income area and will have a niche market in a less affluent neighborhood.

Office Buildings

Companies and small business owners rent offices to grow their operations. Successful enterprises often result in multi-year leases.

Retail Properties

From downtown storefronts to large shopping centers, retail properties can serve as everything from grocery stores to hobby shops to restaurants. The landlord may also receive a percentage of the property's sales on top of the monthly rent.

Mixed-Use Commercial Properties

Multi-story commercial buildings are often home to various businesses. You might see a shoe store next to a dentist with a corporate office above and a restaurant below. These properties are usually bought by experienced investors with substantial assets. They will then rent the space to various businesses as a way to diversify their portfolio and hedge against risk.

Whether you're buying or selling, it pays to choose the best option based on your situation. Having an experienced real estate agent on your side can help you secure a great deal in any neighborhood.

About the Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]