It’s time to begin the search! If you have a few minutes, watch this video from Buzzfeed and Realtor.com. It has a great little bit about identifying the difference between needs and wants.
Next, write down your list of top needs, keep this list to a minimum. These are the items that are “must haves” in any house you would like to be shown. Here are some examples to get you started:
- One story, no stairs
- Updated and move in ready
- A specific school district
- Number of bedrooms
Sometimes couples need to write their lists separately and then combine the matching items, like Ned and Ariel, discuss the differences, then compromise.
Next, make a list of wants. These are the items that would be nice to have but not necessary to see in a home right now. Maybe you want to take on a DIY project, or save until it fits your budget, either way you can live without them for now. Here are some examples:
- Hardwood floors
- Shiplap (thank you Chip and Joanna Gaines!)
- Marble counters
- Fireplace
Once we have your lists, we will be better able to help you find what you are looking for and be there to remind you when your wants are overshadowing your needs. We’ll set up an auto search where you will get listings minute by minute, you won’t have to wait 24 hours. You can schedule to see the house within 24 hours of it being on the market, call or text us and we’ll make every effort to show it in 24-48 hours.
A quick note about auto searches, they will be a broad sweep of just the items on your “must haves” list, we don’t want you to miss out on any option just because it doesn’t have everything on your wants list. This auto search also means you don’t have to look at Zillow, trulia, redfin, realtor.com, etc anymore! You will have access to all of those listings in one place, and it will be more accurate, too.
The most important thing to remember, if you love what you see, let us know as soon as possible so we can set up a showing!