Finding the Perfect Home: What to Look for Before You Make the Move

Buying a home is always an exciting journey, but searching for the perfect home in Tulsa, Oklahoma, comes with its own unique advantages—and things to watch for. From vibrant communities like Brookside and Midtown Tulsa to the fast-growing suburbs of Jenks, Bixby, and Broken Arrow, the Tulsa housing market offers something for every lifestyle.
Here’s what to look for before you make the move to Tulsa.

1. Location: The Heart of Every Tulsa Home Search

In real estate, location is everything—and Tulsa has plenty of diverse neighborhoods to choose from.

When evaluating locations in Tulsa, consider:

• Commute times to key areas like Downtown Tulsa, South Tulsa, or the Riverside corridor
  
  
• Proximity to Tulsa amenities, including Gathering Place, Utica Square, shopping centers, and restaurants
  
  
• Access to major highways, such as Highway 169, I-44, and the Creek Turnpike
  
  
• Neighborhood growth, especially in emerging areas like Owasso and East Tulsa
  
  

Each area of Tulsa—from historic Maple Ridge to family-friendly South Tulsa—offers its own lifestyle and long-term value.

2. The Neighborhood Feel in Tulsa’s Communities

Tulsa neighborhoods each have their own personality. While the house itself matters, the community around it shapes your daily life.

Consider:

• Walkability in areas like Brookside or Downtown Tulsa
  
  
• Family-friendly communities in Bixby, Jenks, and Owasso
  
  
• School district reputations, especially Jenks and Bixby Public Schools
  
  
• HOA regulations common in Tulsa suburbs
  
  

Visit neighborhoods at different times of day to get a feel for traffic, noise levels, and overall vibe.

3. Home Layout & Functionality: Tulsa Buyers’ Top Priorities

Beyond the Tulsa ZIP code, the layout can make or break your long-term satisfaction.

Think about:

• Whether the floor plan suits your lifestyle (open concept is popular in newer South Tulsa and Bixby homes)
  
  
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms for your needs
  
  
• Space for a home office, especially common for Tulsa remote workers
  
  
• Future needs for kids, pets, or extended family
  
  

As the Tulsa market grows, thoughtfully designed homes tend to hold their value better.

4. Tulsa Home Inspections & Condition of Major Systems

The condition of major systems is essential in any home, especially with Tulsa’s seasonal weather changes.

Pay attention to:

• Roof age, as hailstorms can be common in Oklahoma
  
  
• HVAC system, important for hot Tulsa summers
  
  
• Plumbing & electrical, especially in older Midtown Tulsa homes
  
  
• Foundation stability, especially in homes near rivers or older districts
  
  
• Signs of water damage, which can be an issue with heavy spring rains
  
  

A trusted local Tulsa inspector can help you avoid costly repairs after closing.

5. Tulsa Lot Sizes & Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor living is a big part of the Tulsa lifestyle.

Consider:

• Yard size for kids and pets
  
  
• Space for patios, pools, or outdoor kitchens (popular in South Tulsa and Jenks homes)
  
  
• Privacy and fencing
  
  
• Lot grading and drainage—important during Oklahoma storm season
  
  
• Whether the neighborhood allows structures like sheds or pergolas
  
  

Homes near the Gathering Place, Riverside Trails, or area parks often provide added outdoor enjoyment.

6. Future Resale Value in the Tulsa Housing Market

Even if you’re not planning to sell anytime soon, it’s smart to think like an investor—especially in a growing city like Tulsa.

Strong resale indicators include:

• Desirable school districts (Jenks, Bixby, Owasso)
  
  
• Updated kitchens and bathrooms
  
  
• Popular Tulsa floor plans
  
  
• Walkability or proximity to shopping and dining
  
  
• Stable or growing neighborhoods
  
  

Areas like Midtown, Brookside, and South Tulsa consistently show strong long-term demand.

7. Understanding Tulsa Homeownership Costs

Beyond the purchase price, consider the full cost of owning a home in Tulsa:

• Property taxes (generally lower than many large metro areas)
  
  
• Homeowners insurance (especially for storm protection)
  
  
• HOA dues in suburban communities
  
  
• Utility costs for older homes vs. newer energy-efficient builds
  
  
• Potential updates, especially in historic Tulsa homes
  
  

Tulsa remains one of the more affordable metro areas in the country, which is why so many buyers relocate here.

8. Define Your Must-Haves When Buying a Home in Tulsa

Before you tour homes:

• List your non-negotiables (school district, number of bedrooms, location)
  
  
• List your nice-to-haves (pool, office space, large yard)
  
  
• Decide if you prefer an older Midtown Tulsa home with character or a newer South Tulsa/Bixby home with modern features
  
  

This helps you stay focused and avoid the emotional pull of shiny upgrades that don’t meet your true needs.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect home in Tulsa doesn’t have to be overwhelming. When you understand the neighborhoods, the market, and what to look for inside the home itself, the search becomes exciting—and rewarding. Tulsa offers a unique blend of affordability, lifestyle, and community that continues to draw homebuyers from all over the country.

If you're ready to start your Tulsa home search, need a relocation guide, or want expert insight into Tulsa’s neighborhoods, I’m here to help make the move smooth and successful.