Making a few lists can make home buying easier
The process of shopping for your new home can be an adventure to say the least. Just like buying a car, it is easy to become slightly obsessed with all the bells and whistles which can side track you from remembering that a large back yard is your priority. To keep your self focused, take a few minutes to organize your requirements by dividing your wish list into three parts. The three categories I recommend are must have, like to have and don't want.
To better define the categories, the question you must ask yourself is: Which features must your home have? Which features would you like to have, but could live without? And, what features or situation must you avoid.
When creating your must have list, try to limit it to the essential and difficult-to-change details, like location or layout. To better organize your lists try to rank them in order of priority.
Difficult-to-change, must have features can include the type of house, for example a 3 bedroom farm house or new construction; the number of rooms and size; proximity to schools or work.
Next is the fun list, like-to-have or wish list. This list is good for cosmetic things that would be great to have but could be added later. Swimming pools, hot tubs, hardwood floors and landscaping are all things that would be great to have initially but could be added later if need be. There are no limits to what can go on this list, so put it all down.
The third list is as important as the first one, don't-wants. The biggest thing with the don't-wants list, is knowing your capability in changing don't-want items once your must-have list has been satisfied. For example an old swimming pool may not be as easy to remove as you might think and there are always costs involved.
Don't forget to use your friendly real estate agent throughout this process. Real estate professionals are a great resource of information about many of the items you will be listing.
The final step is to take your three lists and create a checklist that you can take with you during showings. It will be a good way of keeping you focused and can act as a point of reference as you review later that night.
The lists are not set in stone and will most likely change as you see homes with your agent. The most important thing to remember is that no one house will include all of your must-have features. The good news is that all the time you spent list making will pay-off once you find that perfect house.
Agent Spotlight
Lindsay DuBois-Kraus
Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker
845-687-2200