House hunting is exciting. In fact, it is so thrilling that you may find yourself choosing a home you think you love when, in reality, it does not match your lifestyle at all. Seeing one gorgeous home after another is a great experience, but you can easily become distracted if you are not certain of what it is that you are looking for. This is why it is so important to understand exactly what features you want in your new home.
Identifying the Structure You Are Looking For
When deciding which features you want your new house to have, it is a good idea to start with the actual structure of the home and then work your way inward, in a sense. This means thinking about the home itself and then identifying the details.
So, first of all, think about how many bedrooms and bathrooms you want. Do you need a home that is on one level, or are multiple stories acceptable? These are the basic elements that your real estate agent will look for when picking properties to show you.
You might also consider architectural style and the actual land on which the home is situated. For instance, it is important to specify if you are looking for a particular style of house (say, a Craftsman or a Tudor). Likewise, you need to be specific when telling your realtor about the property you are interested in buying. For example, note whether or not you want a great deal of land, a small yard, or if the outdoor space does not matter much to you.
Think About the Flow of the Floor Plan
Homes are built in a plethora of styles, from those that are very compartmentalized to sweepingly open floor plans that create rooms only through the arrangement of furniture. Guide your realtor when pinpointing the lifestyle that you have created. For instance, let your real estate agent know if you want an open concept living space or if you prefer the privacy that individual rooms afford.
This particular feature of a home is something that you may not be sure of before you start your search. Just remember to be vocal regarding how you feel about the properties that your realtor shows you, as that will allow them to determine what you are looking for and pick homes that are more in line with your expectations.
Looking at the Details
Before you even begin to pinpoint the details, such as counter-top finishes, flooring, etc., it is crucial to determine how much work you are willing to put into your new home. If you are happy to replace the floors or install a new counter-top, keep this in mind as you shop. If you want a move-in ready property, determine the kinds of finishes that you would like and communicate this with your real estate agent.
Some examples of the details to consider include: flooring, counter-tops, cabinets, mirrors, water fixtures, and light fixtures.
Purchasing a new home is an incredibly exciting experience; however, it can seem daunting and quickly become stressful if you are not sure what you want in your new property. For this reason, it is a great idea to consider the features you would like your new home to have and keep this list handy as you view different houses. Ultimately, the list will keep you grounded and allow you to purchase a home that you will love for years to come.
