As you prepare to purchase your first condo, it can feel overwhelming to see some homes' impact regarding the square footage. Since condos are generally smaller than most single-family homes, there are some extra challenges to be aware of as you prepare to buy a condo.

Instead of feeling surprised by the options for condos for sale and their sizes, consider the following tips to ensure that they're plenty large enough for your lifestyle. 

Consider the Shared Living Space

Along with the number of bedrooms, one of the most essential aspects is how spacious the shared living space is. A kitchen and living room should be some of the largest parts of the home since this is the shared space you'll likely be entertaining guests in.

Checking how large these areas are before choosing a condo to buy is vital for avoiding issues where your home feels cramped for your family or when you have guests over. 

Prioritize a Private Outdoor Feature

While most condos won't have their own backyard, it's a great idea to have a private outdoor space. A balcony, a patio, or rooftop access can all be good features to look for. Having an outdoor space to yourself can help avoid issues where your condo feels too small or you feel cramped inside.

With an outdoor feature to yourself, you can have a quiet place for a cup of coffee or a small balcony garden, even in a small condo.

Stay Realistic About the Layout 

If you're eager to buy your condo and feel concerned about the size, you need to see how the condo is laid out. A layout with many tight hallways can be frustrating and result in you being unhappy with how small the condo is. Being sure to buy a condo that has an open layout can ensure that your home feels much more spacious. The layout should also provide room for any children or pets you intend to have. 

As you shop for a condo to purchase, there's a lot to consider to avoid issues where the home is too small. With the goal to buy the perfect condo, the above tips can ensure that your home feels spacious and won't be too small once you've moved in. By seeing how spacious the condo is before making an offer, you can move somewhere accommodating to your lifestyle that won't lead to the desire to move again anytime soon. 

Contact a real estate agent near you for more information.