As you prepare to search for a new home, you may have big dreams about how gorgeous the home will be and how wonderful life will be once you get settled in. The primary obstacle that may be standing in your way is to find the perfect home for your needs. It makes sense to create a written outline of what you are looking for in a new home. When you pass this outline on to your real estate agent, your agent may help you to narrow down the options and locate a home that lives up to your high expectations. As you prepare a list of needs and wants for your new home, use these tips as guidance.
Assess Your Current Needs
Moving into a new home gives you the opportunity to find a more comfortable and practical space for your family’s needs. For example, your current space may lack adequate storage space, or you may benefit from having a home office or a playroom for the kids. Spend a few days focused on aspects of your current home that are impractical or uncomfortable, and add these factors to your list.
Plan for the Future
Many house hunters make the mistake of finding a home that is ideal for current needs without also focusing on the future. Unless you plan to move within a very short period of time, anticipate what your family’s housing needs may be in a few years or more. You may plan to expand your family, bring your mother-in-law in to live with you or make other significant changes. When you plan ahead, you eliminate the need to move for practicality in the near future.
Consult with All Occupants
Just as you have specific needs and wants for a new home, your home’s other occupants may also have needs and wants. Rather than assume that you know what is best for them, ask them for feedback. Even young children may offer insight about factors that you have overlooked, so it makes sense to talk to all occupants at the beginning of the real estate buying process so you can hand your agent a more complete list of needs.
As you and your real estate agent look for a new home, be aware that it may not be reasonable to find a home that perfectly meets every need while also addressing all of your wants. This is particularly true if you must find a new place to live very soon. With this in mind, consider prioritizing your list in terms of must-haves, items that you strongly prefer and items that would be nice to have.
