It's more difficult to find a home that fits exactly to your style, and if you have experience with the building / renovation process it might be ideal to purchase a home with good bones and change it according to your style.

What specifically would you consider "good bones" in a home? Thank you for your quick response. We went through a total home renovation several years ago and I do not wish to go back there again.

dec·o·rate (d k-r t) tr.v. dec·o·rat·ed, dec·o·rat·ing, dec·o·rates. 1. To furnish, provide, or adorn with something ornamental; embellish.

ren·o·vate [ rénnə vàyt ]
make something like new again: to bring something such as a building back to a former better state by means of repairs, redecoration, or remodeling
refresh somebody or something: to give new vigor to somebody or something.

re•mod•el (riˈmɒd l)

v.t. -eled, -el•ing (esp. Brit.) -elled, -el•ling.
to alter in structure or form; reconstruct; make over.

I would think that whichever choice you make that you would be doing some level of "redecorating".....be it painting, replacing carpet, drapes, etc.,etc., to make it "your" place and to fit your lifestyle.

If you're looking to "renovate" on some level...........good bones would be things like level floors, doors that swing and close without binding, plumbing fixtures that work properly, lights and receptacles that work properly, a wiring system that is close to code (i.e. panel with breakers, 3 wire circuits, GFI receptacles), windows that work and seal properly, roof that is in good shape, exterior in good shape (no rot for siding, no cracks in the brick), you would want no serious foundation issues or sill plate issues (i.e rotted), a mechanical system that isn't on its last leg of life.............and a layout that meets your needs.

If you're talking "remodeling", you're basically looking for the "bare bones" of the super structure (i.e. foundation, floor and roof framing, exterior walls)..........everything else can be replaced.

It all depends on your budget and how much work you want to put into "making it your home" and only you can decide that.

Thanks for this informative description of "good bones" .

No mention of the setting for your new home. Is that an issue for you ? Do you value a view ? That is something you can't duplicate regardless of budget. Maybe you will be more comfortable with the more affordable home you can gradually personalize than to go overboard financially. Don't lay awake at night worrying about mortgage payments for granite countertops!