Searching for a new home can be a daunting process.
You probably have a mental picture of exactly what you’re looking for, but that doesn’t always mean you’ll find it!
Real estate agents often remind clients that there’s no such thing as a perfect house- it’s simply a matter of finding the perfect house for YOU.
That does mean that you may have to make some compromises during the house hunt, but there are some sticking points where you should NEVER settle.
Here are 5 things that you CAN’T compromise on:
- Location
You can do a lot of things to make a house fit your needs, but changing the location isn’t one of them. If you find a great house in a questionable area, or if it’s too far from work, school, or other necessities, it’s probably not the one for you.
- Home Condition
If you don’t have the time, budget, or desire to take on a fixer-upper, don’t do it!!! It’s easy to get carried away with the idea of what a house could be, but that can get you in trouble! If you’re in the market for a turnkey property, stick to your guns. You might have to look a little longer, but it can save you from MAJOR headaches down the road!
- School District
If you don’t have school age kids, and aren’t planning to in the future, you can skip this one, but buyers that prioritize school systems need to pay attention. School districts can affect your kids’ educational quality AND your resale values. Do your homework to ensure that your dream home isn’t derailed by a subpar school district.
- Budget
You’ve (hopefully) been pre-approved and know how much you can technically afford to spend, but if that number is above your comfort level, go with your gut. Figure out a monthly payment that leaves enough left to cover monthly expenses and necessary updates without leaving you “house poor.” Once you’ve got your bottom line in mind, stick to it! Going above your financial comfort level can lead to some serious buyer’s remorse.
- The Things That Matter to YOU
This can include ANYTHING. If you’re determined to have a big yard for your kids to play in, don’t settle for a home with a postage-stamp size lot! If you need tons of natural light to be happy, don’t settle for a house with just a few tiny windows. You know what matters to you, and chances are, you can find a home that delivers exactly what you’re looking for!
Perfect houses may not exist but finding the perfect home for YOU is completely possible! Let your real estate agent know your priorities and keep an open mind. Before you know it, you’ll be comfortably settled in the property you’ve always dreamed about.
