A Longterm Decision: To Buy Residential Property

A roof over one's head is one of the most basic human requirements. Shelter is a need that is as old as time. Even primitive man wanted shelter from the raging elements and found caves to dwell in. Much water has flown under the bridge since then and as mankind has evolved so did his dwelling requirements. Over the centuries homes have changed and developed often reflecting the times. When countries and rulers were prosperous, homes were large sprawling mansions or palaces with land and gardens. The simple country folk lived in no frills cottages, while the poor lived in tiny hutments. Homes have always reflected the economic conditions of the times and its owners along with reflecting the historical and geographical conditions of the times.

Gone are the days of fortresses and palaces. Residential properties have now become more compact, manageable and easy to maintain. In instead of rolling park grounds and sprawling lawns, landscaped community gardens and playgrounds have taken their place. The main concerns of any individual wishing to buy residential property are convenience, aesthetics and of course security. Needs vary from one person to another. Those who have young children or those who are aged and living alone might opt for a gated community where a certain amount of security is ensured. Young working couples may plump for studio apartments that have all the modern conveniences. Those who have a more affluent and relaxed lifestyle might think that a townhouse or a villa suits them best. Then there are celebrities, industrialists and others of their ilk who need large bungalows with landscaped gardens and high boundary walls to keep out prying eyes. The needs are many and when one goes to buy residential property one chooses a home that suits his individual requirements and reflects ones personality and style of living. The most important thing when one goes to buy residential property is that one must feel a sense of belonging. After all it is not the walls and roofs that make a home; it is the people living in it.

Different strokes for different people. Some people like to buy residential property as a display, either subtle or ostentatious, of their wealth and possessions. Yet others are superstitious and will not decide on a single premise without consulting feng shui or even 'vaastu' specialists who will decide auspicious directions that will shower wealth and prosperity on its inhabitants. Still others choose to buy showpiece homes as investments, one that is a safe place to park funds and watch them escalate. But most people buy residential property to create homes for themselves and their families, homes that they then lovingly create into havens of peace and security where they can rear their children and watch them grow, homes where they can grow old and homes that eventually become a storehouse of cumulative memories. People get emotionally attached to their homes and sometimes imbue them with almost life like qualities. Which is why some homes seem welcoming, always 'with open arms', some homes give off feel good vibes, which is why we have a word called 'homecoming' which symbolizes warmth and welcome. To buy a residential property is thus not just the purchase of bricks and mortar, it is a decision that impacts years to come and must be made with care.

About the author

Paul Watson is a real estate broker and has for long been associated with Allsoppandallsopp.com He provides real estate advices to lease sell and buy residential property across Dubai and rest of UAE.