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The “Must Have” and “Can Live Without” List: Why Deciding Your Must Haves Before Viewing and Making an offer on Homes is a Great First Step.
The “Must Haves’ when buying a home
Knowing what you want or need before you start looking to buy a home is a big step when house hunting. Write a list of must haves items and what you can live without before starting your home search and supply the list to your real estate professional a couple of days before you begin previewing homes for sale is a great idea because they can find properties that meet as many of your “must haves” as possible.
It is also helpful on a more personal level, since being organized and knowing what you want will help quickly identify whether or not certain homes meet your standards.
Is it a “Must-Have” or “Can Live Without”?
The debate between “I need it” and “I want it” can be a struggle when looking at a home purchase in California. There are needs band wants, like what is the need when purchasing a home, the wants will only drive the price up of the home.
There are items on the list that you want and certain deal breakers that you cannot live without. An absolute must have might be distance to work or schools, whereas a want feature could include a a 3 car garage or a built in barbeque pit. Identifying the difference between something you want and something that is absolutely required can save you a ton of time and money.
How to Organize your Effective List
Write down everything your home would have, then ask yourself how necessary are each of those items. Rate them by priority, whether an must have requirement, something you would definitely prefer, something you would consider a compromise and something that you could really live without for now. That first group is your must haves, second is your nice to have list, which is a great comparison when choosing to make an offer on a home with your must have items.
Some Suggestions for a Great List
Your Always hear the old saying “Location, location, location” – The top of any good “must haves” check list should be the location of the home. No matter what else is changed in a home, the location will always remain the same location. You will need to decide what you want to be close to like work, kid’s schools, family etc. or far away from you need to be and need to make sure the grounds and neighborhood are acceptable.
How many Bedrooms and bathrooms are needed – Does every family member need their own room? Do you need a office or guest room? Could everyone share one bathroom or is that just out of the question? Ask yourself what you need at a minimum to facilitate everyone that is going to live in the home.
Are you considered with Energy-efficient windows and good insulation – It may seem technical, but an energy efficient home can save you a lot of money over the course of owning your home. Do not let money drain out with a poorly insulated home.
Do you need space for a pet(s) – Not everyone has pets, but for those who do it is a good idea to think of them in your “must haves” check off list. After all, your new home purchase is going to be Dallas’s new home as well! A fenced yard or a dog run might be a good idea, but also consider if the space would allow you to add your own pet friendly amenities at a later date.
Call me first so when can secure financing before ben starting your home search and don’t forget your new list!
Nathan Rufty Mortgage Professional 9099-503-5600
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