Planning...for the Perfect Home

You’ve decided it’s time for a change – that could mean purchasing your first home, looking for a larger home, or perhaps you’re in the market to downsize. No matter what your reason for moving is, advanced homework can mean a lot less leg work.

Before you start hunting for the perfect home, you have to know what “perfect” means to you…and that starts with price. Figure out what you can comfortably afford so you know the appropriate price range to look at. Sit down with a mortgage broker and be open about your finances. After a complete financial analysis, you’ll find a price range that fits with your lifestyle.

Next, make a list of all the features that are important to you. This list should include things like:

· Number of bedrooms and bathrooms

· Updated features in the kitchen

· Style of home

· Home office

· Storage space

· Location

· Size of yard

· Energy efficiency & low maintenance

Prioritize your list and discuss it with your real estate agent to see how realistic it is within your price range. You may have to adjust some of your priorities. Then check out four or five houses with your agent. Be candid about what you like and dislike in the houses you see. Open communication makes the process easier for everyone.

If a home captures your interest, check out the neighbourhood and go back a second or a third time. But if possible, leave the kids at home so you’re not distracted. You may have to make snap decision about whether or not to buy a home. So, get in the practice of analyzing every listing you see in terms of your housing needs.