Title: Compare housing options.
Course: Independent Living (22904-36)

Comparison should include

- identifying the basic strategies (i.e., agency, online) of comparison shopping
- identifying factors (i.e., security, proximity to work and/or school, community resources) to consider when comparing places to live
- validating and using sources of information about housing
- listing advantages and disadvantages of housing options
- identifying additional fees associated with housing.

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

- What are the differences between buying and renting a home (e.g., house, apartment, condominium) without research or comparison shopping?
- What factors should one consider when determining the type of home to purchase or rent?

Communication

- What communication strategies do agents and landlords use to make their offerings attractive to buyers or renters?
- What skills does one use when comparing living spaces?
- What are the most important features you seek in a home?

Leadership

- What criteria should be used to evaluate housing options during the home-buying process?
- What leadership skills can help one negotiate an agreement that satisfies both buyer and seller or landlord and tenant?
- What qualities should one look for when selecting a realtor, landlord, or leasing agency?

Management

- How does the economy affect the housing market?
- What is the difference between a buyer’s market and a seller’s market? What shopping strategies should one use if housing is plentiful and the cost is relatively low?
- How do consumers know how much they can afford for housing?