After you determine what you can afford, it’s time to start searching for your dream first home. Keep in mind that you may not find everything you want within your given budget. You will need to make some sacrifices.
This is why it is helpful to keep of list of Needs and Wants. Your needs represent everything you must have in your home. You might include the following:
- House size
- Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- House, townhouse or condo
- Lot size – do you need a large yard?
- Location: Neighborhood, school district, distance to work
Wants are unnecessary things that would be good to have if possible. This list might include:
- A swimming pool
- A large pouch
- Extra closet/storage space
- Certain architectural style of home
- Multi-car garage
Although it would be nice to include these additions, they should be the first to go when you are searching for that first home. Do not talk yourself into buying a house that is more than you can afford, just so that you can hit every item on your list.
Tips:
Download our Wish list – what features do you want?
Home-shopping checklist? take this list with you when comparing homes
- Real Estate Agents –
- Homes for sale (including HUD homes)
- Fixer-Uppers – home purchase and repair programs
- Manufactured (mobile) homes
- Shopping for a Home FAQ’s
🏠 More: Explore rental properties for sale – tenants and cashflow included!
