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Evaluate your Home Buying Priorities

When you're looking for a home, it is helpful to sit down and make a list of what is important to you. Here are some ideas to get you started. Of course, if you have any specific questions, please feel free to contact us.

Get it down on paper

Commit a list to paper. This is helpful for several reasons.

First of all, it can ensure that you are in agreement with anyone else who has a hand in the home buying decision (if you're not the sole decision maker).

Secondly, having a written list helps you explain to your agent exactly what is important to you...so we don't waste your time with information on properties that would not work.

And finally, having a list helps make your home search a reality. Ever heard the saying, "A goal is a dream with a deadline; a goal without a deadline is only a wish"?

Location vs. amenities

What is more important to you: being in a particular location, or having more bells and whistles? Would you like the smallest house in a neighborhood of expensive homes, or the biggest house in a neighborhood of less expensive homes? That's taking it to the extreme...but the point is the same. Think about which is more important to you.

Need vs Want

Write down a list of features that you would like your next home to have, then determine which is a "must have" and what is a "like to have". For example:

• I would love to have two full baths but one and a half bath would meet my needs.
• Or, the home I buy must have a basement I will not purchase a home if it does not have one.

House that needs work

Decide if you are willing to consider homes that need work or if you need a home that is "move-in ready". If you would think about doing work, are you up for major repairs and renovations...or are cosmetic issues all that you would prefer to address?

Affordability

For most folks, there is a difference between what you qualify for and what is realistically affordable. Take a look at your budget to make sure that the monthly payment you are taking on gives enough room to deal with unforeseen expenses.

The items mentioned above are certainly not an exhaustive list of issues, but a few to get you started. If you're considering buying a home, we would love an opportunity to earn your trust and your business. Please use our Seattle real estate search including communities all over the metro area and many more! If you have a home to sell as well, please use our form to request a free market analysis. Give us a call, or send us an email with any questions.