Feng Shui Tips for Home Buyers

An ancient Chinese practice is becoming more and more popular in countries far away from China or its influence. Feng shui has been used for centuries by people seeking to improve their lives through the use of color, materials and object placements in order to invite positive energy, or “Chi,” into their homes. In feng shui, the primary goal is to create an optimal flow of energy, which will improve all aspects of one's life - relationships, finances, health and career.
When I told this to my friend she said something to the effect of: “Oh, so it’s kind of an ancient Chinese interior design practice.” Well, I guess one can say so, if he/she really wants to simplify things. But there’s definitely more to it. There’s both interior and exterior designing aspect to it and it really means surrounding yourself with the flow of positive energy wherever you spends your time at – your home, office or your garden.

It has always been clear to me how powerful these ancient principles are. Unfortunately, I quickly became aware how complex they can be to follow as well. Reading about different principles supported by different feng shui schools was oftentimes confusing and it did bring my enthusiasm about this ancient practice down. However, recent question from one of this blog’s readers made me read some of my feng shui literature again. (Find the question and an answer to it at Ask Yaz page). Going through that stuff again, I’ve found some very good tips on house purchase and decided to share them here with you and help my friend AMA on his/her quest as well.

Originally used by the ancient Chinese to select the proper location and form of their buildings, the following feng shui principles might really help those looking for a new home. 

· Location
According to feng shui, a house located on high or at least leveled land will allow the best flow of energy. Ideally the lot will be either square or rectangular in shape with an open space in front of the house. A house where the land rises slightly behind it is best, as that will slow the energy departure. It is better if the house sits on the front half of the lot, and the entrance to the house is above or in level with a road, so the positive energy doesn’t by-pass the house. Major NO, NOS are houses located on a dead end, in a cul-de-sac or at the end of a T-junction, as these spots tend to hinder energy flow, thus allowing stagnation or if you’re close to the busy road bombardment with energy. If your dream house happens to be in these unlucky positions, use attractive landscaping either to protect your house form too much of energy or to help add movement to the surroundings. Trees, brightly colored flowers, and the use of flags, spinners and wind chimes can help attract more of positive energy.

· Landscaping
As landscaping can either help or hinder energy movement, one should be aware of the placement of shrubbery and trees around the house. For best energy flow, trees should not be in line with the front door, as this may block good energy. In addition, go with houses that do not have trees and shrubbery too close to them. 

· Inside the house
Bathrooms should be located on the outer areas of the house; if they are in the center, the energy can drain away, leaving you feeling tired and lethargic. If you choose a house with a bathroom in the center, incorporate the earth element into the space, for example, install ceramic tile or hang a landscape picture. Real or silk plants and pictures of trees, flowers or gardens are helpful. The master bedroom should be located in the back half of the house, since this is considered a place of dominance. It is also believed that bedrooms should not be located over open areas, such as a laundry room or garage, nor should bathrooms be located over kitchens or dining area. If either is the case, illness may be more frequent visitor to the house inhabitants. Stairs immediately opposite the entry way will allow energy to rush out of the house, negatively impacting new opportunities, health and wealth. If the house is perfect for you in all but this aspect, then you can hang a crystal between the door and the stairway, or a mirror at the top of the stairs. You can display artwork in the stairwell (keeping picture groupings leveled instead of staggered) and place a pretty swag of flowers or greenery above the inside of the front door.

· History of the house
If at all possible, find out about the house's previous owners. A death that occurred in the house or previous owners who were unsuccessful in their endeavors may signify poor energy flow. That would suggest no foreclosed houses. Also, be wary if there are houses in the neighborhood in disrepair or neighbors that appear unsuccessful, as this may show a lack of positive energy. So, no bad or run down neighborhoods either. Makes sense, doesn’t it. Also, all animals in the area, whether pets or wild animals, such as birds and squirrels, should look healthy.

In addition, I’m reading that there are actually realtors out there who took feng shui classes and can guide their clients to feng shui-friendly homes, so you don’t have to work alone on finding that perfect house that employs these powerful principles.

At the end, I’d like to thank my reader AMA (that’s how he/she signed the email) for giving me the inspiration to write this post and for motivating me to take another look at feng shui.