Ask these questions to help you determine what home is right for you!

The home buying process is an exciting one.  As a Locust Grove REALTOR ® I love to feel the energy and excitement of buyers that I work with experience as they tour homes.  Home buying can also feel overwhelming.  Buying a home is a big investment and one that you want to make sure is right.  Are you having some confusion in how to determine what home is right for you?  Here are five questions to ask yourself to help narrow down your search.

How much money do I want to spend?

If this Locust Grove REALTOR ® is looking at homes with buyers, then that means they have been pre-approved for a mortgage.  The amount that a mortgage company is willing to lend a buyer is what we have to spend on a home.  However, this doesn’t mean that buyers have to spend that maximum amount.  It’s important to create a budget with an anticipated monthly mortgage payment along with your other costs to determine what you feel comfortable spending.  

What type of home improvement projects do I want to do?

While you may save some money by looking at homes that need some TLC, it is important to be realistic about your own construction capabilities.  Do you feel comfortable replacing flooring or would you have it installed professionally?  Are you willing to paint walls yourself?  Do you have family or friends that are willing to help? All of these projects will add to your budget.  If you feel like you don’t have the money or time to devote to doing home improvement projects that’s ok!  We can take these homes off the list.

Where do you want to live?

Don’t be afraid to get in your car and explore potential neighborhoods where you want to live.  If a short commute to work is a priority, then it is worth exploring the areas that fall into your desired drive time.  You may find out that a community that you wanted to live in is too far away or you may discover a new neighborhood that you like.  Understand that your budget may get your more or less home in different areas.

How much outdoor maintenance do you want?

Are you okay with buying acreage with a lot to mow?  Do you want a small lot that can be done in an hour?  Do you want a garden or space for animals?  Knowing what you are looking for outdoors can help your Locust Grove REALTOR ® find properties that match your needs.

What are three non-negotiable features in a home? 

Everyone has certain features in a home that they need to be present in order to live comfortably in it.  This might include things like a one story home, a separate office space, or a bathroom attached to the primary bedroom.  Create a list of three things that are non-negotiable for you; this means that if the house has to have this in order for you to consider buying it.  You can also create a list of things that would be nice to have, but aren’t necessary. Knowing what you want in a home will help your Locust Grove REALTOR ® narrow down the search.