How to Find a Home to Buy

Before driving through neighborhoods and visiting open houses on Sundays, take a piece of paper and divide it into two columns.  If you have a spouse, have him/her do the same on a separate sheet of paper.

Above the first column, write "NEEDS" and above the second, write "WANTS".  Needs are defined as items that are necessities and are must have features for a new home.  Wants, on the other hand, are generally categorized as those items that make life a little more comfortable (such as a garden tub and double sink vanity in the master bathroom).

As you begin to fill out each column, be sure to ask yourself the following questions:

1. What is the minimum number of bedrooms?

2.  What is the minimum number of bathrooms?  (Try to pick homes with at least 1.5 to 2 bathrooms.  Homes with only one bathroom are very difficult to resell).

3.  New home or resale home?  As you explore this option, remember that newer homes may offer newer appliances and amenities where as older homes have landscaping, established neighborhoods, etc.  (One bit of advice here...never go into a new home subdivision without an buyer's agent to represent you.  The sales agent at the subdivision works for the builder and will not negotiate on your behalf.  The result could be a costly contract that you cannot back out of).

4.  Are there any features that I must have?  Are you a hobby enthusiast and need extra space for your arts and crafts?  Do your children attend a specific school and you want to keep them in the area?  Do you want a pool?

Having an idea of the type of home is critical to successfully finding a home.  As you and your real estate agent begin exploring homes, be sure to take a notepad along so that you can write down any special features about the property.