The old adage goes, “different strokes for different folks.” People have different tastes and needs. But most house hunters tend to scout for nearby establishments first before even contemplating the possibility of buying a house in a particular area.

When it comes to looking for your own property, one must always weigh the pros and cons of living in new territory. Here are several things that you might want to consider.

Grocery and/or wet market. Food is life. Preparing food for the family is a very essential part of a parent’s responsibilities. Having a grocery or several community market stalls near the house or subdivision will make meal planning easier and less of a hassle. Plus, there is no need for a longer commuting time just to buy food for the household.

Police station. “Is the area/location a safe place to live in?” This is almost always the first question asked by a potential homeowner. Safety is first and foremost in any community. Visibility of the police force or community helpers is essential in ensuring a secure and well-protected environment.

School. For couples who already have children or those who are just about to start their own families, this is a must-have. An extended travel time is tiring for any person, more so for a child. A school nearby will eliminate unnecessary time for travel.

Hospital. Let’s face it. Whether adult or child, sickness is an inevitable life event. Colds, cough, and fever are the most common ones. A trip to the nearest hospital is the only solution that can set one’s mind at ease – the faster you get there, the better.

Church. Regardless of religion, going to church is a well-known Filipino tradition. Some people also go there anytime just to meditate or commune with the Highest Power. During Christmas season, people flock to church for simbang gabi. Having a nearby church makes it easier for regular churchgoers to go to mass or service.

Mall or commercial center. Nearby entertainment is also a come-on for house hunters. Whether to buy furniture, watch a movie, go shopping for personal stuff, or just lounge around in the comforts of an air-conditioned building, having such a place to go to any time is a comforting thought for those who prefer to go to malls during their quality time with themselves, a partner, or their families.

Buying a house is a long term investment. This is the reason why one needs to make sure that they get their perfect house in the best and safest environment.

Every Filipino yearns of having his own home someday. Whether it be a house or a condo, buying his own property becomes priority savings for the home investor. He will toil night and day just to fulfill his dream of having his own house which in turn he will pass on to his future children and family.

The good news is that more and more families are putting their hard-earned money on house ownership than property rental. Based on the estimates of the Philippine Statistics Authority’s 2015 FIES (Family Income and Expenditure Survey 2015, Table 3), out of 22,730 families, a vast majority of almost 16,000 families opted to live in their own houses rather than renting a house for basic shelter.

There are pros and cons in house or condo ownership. But the pros outweigh the cons. Here are some of the reasons why owning property is good for you.

Sudden rent increases. Let’s face it. Sometimes, there are some unforgiving landlords who – at the ungodliest of times – will tell you that in a month’s time, there will be a rent increase. This will often lead to an elusive peace of mind since you will now be forced to either pay the increase or look for a new house to rent or quarrel with the landlord for the short notice. If you have your own house, you can rest safe with the knowledge that no one can bother you with unnecessary problems.

Mortgage and monthly amortization. Unless you are included in the Forbes list of millionaires, common house buying practice for the masses includes a hefty but affordable mortgage. The money you shell out for amortization is like a savings fund for you and your family, and not for the landlord’s pocket.

Safety and security. You have probably heard of horror stories wherein a family is looking for a new house to rent as the house owner told them that he/she will be coming back to live in the house, or the property will be put under renovation, or worse, the condo was already bought by someone else. If the property you are living in is already yours, there is no danger of you getting evicted at any time.

HDMF (Home Development Mutual Fund). Whether you are looking for a new or foreclosed property, the government made sure that there is an agency that can help with your house or condo-hunting needs. More commonly known as the Pag-IBIG Fund, the HDMF is a life-saver for those who are looking to purchase property.

Whatever you decide on, bear in mind that renting or owning property will still cost you money. With that in mind, then do have your own house to give you that fitful sleep of knowing that you are safely nestled in a space you call home.