How to Set Your Priorities when Buying a Home

When you decide that you are ready to buy a home, it is important to decide which features are important to you and which aren't.  A lot of the time buyers will have a picture in their minds.  This picture showcases the community they want to live in, the house they love, and the price they can afford.  Although this works out for some people, it doesn't for others.  Perhaps there is a home that you love but it’s not in the right place, or there isn't anything available in your dream location that’s in your budget.  Whatever is the case, it is important to set your priorities.  A realtor® will be able to provide you expert advice and sort through the many listings available to find you something you will be happy with and works for you and your family.

One of the first things a realtor® will do once you contact them is ask you what you are looking for in a home.  For example, how many bedrooms you want? How many bathrooms? How much parking? Does it need to be close to your job or close to a school? Etc.  This gives them a starting point.  It is always a good idea to figure out these things ahead of time.  I encourage every buyer to create a list of things they need in their new home and a list of things they want in their new home.  If you are buying a home with a spouse, I recommend each completing a separate list.  You will find that the list is usually not the same.  Talk about it and create one master list with priorities, needs, and of course a wish list.  This will help when you meet with your realtor and make things go smoothly and efficiently.

Before you start looking at homes, MEET WITH A LENDER.  This will make sure that you don’t waste your time looking at homes you can’t afford.  As soon as you get pre-approved, make sure you tell your realtor® so they can narrow down their search as well.

If you can’t find that perfect home, in the perfect location, at the perfect price – consider the following options:

• Look for a smaller home – you can always add on to the house when you save a bit more money.
• Try looking at different types of properties such as town houses or condos – you may be surprised to find you like these more than you thought.
•  Consider a fixer upper – although this will lower the list price of the home, make sure you don’t take on something that you can’t handle.  Renovations can get costly quick.
•  Rent longer and save more to be able to afford what you really want.
•  Talk to your realtor® about lease-to-own opportunities.

I hope this article helped you think about how to set your priorities and start thinking about buying a home.  If you are ready to start the house hunting, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to assist you.

Sincerely,

Astra Mulawka
Sales Representative
Better Homes and Gardens
Real Estate Signature Service