You’ve got a Realtor® (still looking for one; learn a little about me), pre-approval letter in hand, and are ready to start searching for a home to buy. Even looking at all the homes on the market in a specific area like Locust Grove, VA, can quickly become overwhelming. The solution? Make a home must have list; it’s the best way to start a successful home search.
What is a home must have list?
A home must have list is a specific list of features that you need in a home. I recommend having a list of three to five absolutely necessary features. These could be things like a separate home office, two car garage, or a finished basement. If a home doesn’t offer these features, then you are not interested in purchasing it.
Below your absolutely must haves, create a list of features that you would like to have in your home, but are not deal breakers if you don’t see them. These might include things like a fenced yard, remodeled kitchen, or an outdoor shed. These are things that you could add to your home once your own it.
Why is it important?
A home must have list is important because it helps you, and your Realtor®, focus your home search to homes that really fit your needs. Remember, things like paint color and flooring choices can be changed easily, but adding a garage is not so easy. Since every home buyer is different, every list will be different too and having a clear vision of what you want in a home before you start looking at them will help make your search easier.
What should my home must have list look like?
Every individuals list is going to be different. Here are some checklists that you can use while on your home search to help you keep all the details about the homes you look at and if the homes fit your must have list.
