10 mistakes buyers make | Part 2: Choosing the right house

7. Large home mistakes

By Rona Fischman
September 12, 2008

Bigger is better? Not always. Buy big if big is what you want, otherwise don't go for the extra space at the cost of other things that are more important to you.

A home can be too big to manage

Before you buy, consider the time and cost required to care for a larger home and lot. Larger houses take more time to clean, more money to decorate and furnish, and more money to heat, maintain, and repair.

Larger yards take more time to mow, have more tree care, and increase the value (and taxes) of your home.

By choosing bigger, you may sacrifice condition, location, or price

Is bigger what you really need? Would a home in better condition be better for you? Do you really want to live on a busy street so that you can have a yard you rarely use?