Survivor Saturdays: The Next Home

Another year is wrapping up and some have matched and some are interviewing. In either case, a move is likely and home shopping will soon become a priority. Whether you want to rent or buy, in this economy you should "think outside the classifieds."

Don't forget to check out for-sale-by-owner sites like www.forsalebyowner.com, fsbo.com, homesbyowner.com and craigslist.org to see what's available. If you're looking to by a home, this can save you realtor fees. If you're looking to rent, you might find some owners who have not been successful selling and might consider renting. You might even be able to strike a deal on a lease-to-own home arrangement.

Before you make any decisions though, check out the neighborhoods. Sometimes houses inside the city limits pay additional property taxes, or sewer charges. Sometimes homes that are inside one city are actually annexed into neighboring city. Some houses in a neighborhood might be on septic even though the houses next the it are not - even in the really nice neighborhoods.

Know what the surrounding area looks like, too. Quarries can create dust and noise for miles. Factories can emit nasty odors. Our first home was surrounded by a tall wood fence, and looked like a mini garden of Eden. After we moved in, we realized a trucking company was on the other side and we heard truck noises day and night. In another home, an undeveloped lot continually washed out onto our driveway and street, making a muddy mess when the kids came inside.

Settling into a new home is fun and exciting, as long as you don't end up paying too much or uncovering some unpleasantness. Looking beyond the traditional resources can save you from both of these.