Defining Your Needs from Your Wants

When you’re in the market for a new home, you’re undoubtedly excited about the prospects of having something more than what you have now. Perhaps you’ll have more space, a yard, more bedrooms, French doors, a Jacuzzi tub, etc. Before you get too caught up in the excitement, you should determine what it is you actually need in a home and what you can do without. It will save you time and frustration in looking at homes you can’t afford or that don’t fit your needs.

A little effort will go a long way

By taking the time to list your wants and your needs, you will save yourself time, frustration and money.

Here are a few questions you might want to ask yourself prior to looking for a new home.

• Where do I want to live? (Community/general area)
• How much should I expect to spend on a home?
• Are schools a factor?
• Do I want an older home or a new one?
• What style of home do I prefer? (Ranch, Colonial, Split-level, Multi-level, Townhouse, Condo, etc.)
• How much renovation and remodeling am I willing, and can I afford, to do?
• Is being close to public transportation important?
• Do I have special physical requirements such as wheelchair access?
• Do I have pets to consider?
• What sort of lot would I like? (Small yard, large yard, fenced, garage, patio, deck, etc.)
• How many bedrooms do I need?
• How many bathrooms do I need?
• How much space do I require? (Square footage)
• What features are important? (Central heat and air, hardwood floors, formal rooms, fireplace, etc.)

If you’re a first-time home buyer, read our article on First-Time Home Buying for valuable information on the buying process. You’ll be glad you did. Contact THE KNELL GROUP for your homebuying needs.