subject: Home Buying Handbook For Single Women [print this page] "Most commonly, single women would wait until they are married before they would even think of buying their own house. Some, however are thinking about it because they want independence. Not only can they have their own private space when they buy a house, but they can also have a property to call their own
The following are some safety considerations that are helpful when buying a home:
* Consider buying a home in a fenced-in neighborhood wherein the only entrance and exit is through a gate with a security guard on-duty twenty-four hours.
* Keep your eyes peeled for busted street lights, dark corners and areas that can become potential hiding places for would-be attackers.
* Try to remember all points of entry and points of exit. It can happen that the house that catches your fancy is a big old one. More often than note, these houses may have features that are considered outdated today. It might have features like a dumbwaiter or a coal chute which may be used as alternative entry points by burglars. Secret passageways may even be present that you haven't thought of because this isn't your idea of a house. Secure all points of entry by checking the doors and windows. Take note of the condition of these doors and windows and consider how much it would cost you to replace or repair them when needed. It may come out that the costs for replacement and repairs plus the actual cost of the house would come out more expensive than buying a newer home. During the negotiations, make sure to raise these concerns.
* Consider homes with fences. You can allow your dog (if you have one) to run around without a leash if you have fences and fences can prevent criminals from entering your property. You might also consider getting a dog if you don't have any. They are good companions and provide additional security when you are living alone.
* Be observant with the neighboring structures. You may have an abandoned building next door which can be a hotbed for crime.
* Think about having a garage attached to the house with an interior access door. With this, you can enter and exit your car within the safety of your garage. Using an electronic remote control, you just raise or lower your garage door. You don't have to expose yourself to danger whenever disembarking from your car late at night.
* Ask the local police station so that you can have a police perspective of the entire area. Inquire about the crime rate of this neighborhood.
Are you buying a home without a realtor? Well, consider hiring one especially if you're a single woman who'll be home alone most of the time. A buyers realtor can assist you as you look for a house that will be best for you in terms of aesthetics, comfort and, most importantly, security.
