House Hunting… Getting What You Want

When you’re looking for the next place to call home, chances are you have a list of most important things to you that you’d like to see in your potential new living space. It’s so important to have a clear idea of what you’re looking for and to know your “must haves” vs. your “nice to haves” on the list! Got kids? You may be juggling school districts on top of that? Commuting long distances? Location will matter? Once you’ve narrowed down your areas more specifically, then you’ll need to focus on the details of the home. How much space do you need? How many bathrooms is enough? Are you “handy” and can handle some renovations or updates after you move in or do you need everything “move in ready”?  While it’s important to have that list, remember, the list is a guideline and sometimes one thing on your list may weigh out the others. Remembering to prioritize is critical- it’s near impossible to check off everything on the list and still stay within budget. Also, remember that sometimes it’s 6 of one and half dozen of the other… which half dozen has enough of the things on the list that make the home worth the move for you? Consider also that updates in a home are changeable, while structural changes are not always as simple or even possible. So if you’re really needing the space immediately but may have to put up with a bathroom renovation or two, maybe you’ve found “the one”. If something needs an entire renovation and is too overwhelming, that’s another story of course!

And remember this too… as you begin your search, what you started out thinking were your “must haves” in a home may change… The process of buying a new home is important- don’t skip the steps or the conversations in between! And remember, sometimes if you get 80% of what you’re looking for, it might be “the one”! If you’re contemplating a purchase and want to weigh out your options/considerations, give our team a call today. We’ll happily lend an ear and listen to your wants and needs so we can give you our honest opinion and feedback and work together with you to help you find your next dream home!