In our younger years we experience a myriad of different housing situations, from living in our parents’ home, to shared student housing, to leaky basement apartments, to crammed condos. But with careful financial planning and a keen eye on the real estate market, there will come a time when you’re ready to finally move into that forever home. Here’s how you’ll know.

Pretty Little Liars

With starter homes, there are often trade-offs, such as sub-par living spaces for a lower price tag. If you’re tired of taking care of a house that does nothing for your aesthetic sensibilities, it might be time to step it up and find a space that truly reflects you.

Size Matters

To qualify as a “forever home,” there must be enough space to accommodate all that life throws at you — at least for the next 20 years. More kids down the road, parents moving in, or a backyard that’s big enough for a future pool, the house and lot need to hold all of it. If you’re ready to take on more square footage (and its accompanying upkeep), jump on in.

For more indicators that you’re ready to really put down real-estate roots, visit HGTV.ca.