How to Create Your Dream Home Checklist

Your dream home isn’t just any home. It’s the perfect combination of location, size, and amenities for your lifestyle and budget.

But how do you find the ideal home? How can you tell if it’s “the one?”

To help you out, we’ve put together a list of questions to ask yourself before beginning your search. Using this checklist, you can ensure that the property you ultimately choose is the perfect place for you to call home.

 

Answering this question first and foremost can help you narrow down a price range, size, location, and other important features for your dream home.

A mortgage pre-approval from your lender is one of the best ways to determine your budget. But keep in mind that your loan estimate is just that — an estimate. Your actual monthly mortgage payment may be higher or lower depending on the type of loan you choose, your down payment amount, and your interest rate.

When finalizing your budget, be sure to add home insurance, property taxes, and any fixed or anticipated monthly expenses to the mix. Lastly, consider setting aside some money for a rainy day — an emergency fund can come in handy when you least expect it.

 

What Am I Looking for in a Home?

Before you make a list of must-haves, try separating “needs” from “wants”. You may want a pool or a covered garage, for example, but maybe you’ll do just fine without either one.

Then again, your dream home shouldn’t just cover the absolute necessities. If certain wants are within your realm of possibility, meaning you can afford them without much financial strain, then go for it! After all, this is your dream home we’re talking about, not some honorable mention you’re going to crash for one or two years.

As far as the home’s physical attributes, consider size, style, and layout. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? Do you want a guest room or a home office? Do you prefer an open concept or a more traditional layout? What about outdoor space? Are you looking for an architectural pièce de résistance? Something modern and sleek? Or a home with some quirks and character?

The answers to these questions will help you zero in on your dream home and stay focused as you search listings online and in person.

 

What’s My Ideal Location?

For many homebuyers, location is just as important as the home itself. That said, you’ll want to consider a few things before narrowing down the perfect neighborhood.

First, decide what type of environment you want to live in. Do you prefer the hustle and bustle of the city or a more relaxed suburban setting? Then, consider things like commute times, schools in the area, and access to local amenities.

When making your decision, you’ll also want to take the time to explore different neighborhoods in person. Drive or walk around your preferred enclaves, paying attention to the overall feeling of the area. Is it somewhere you can see yourself living long-term?

Figuring out the pros and cons of your desired location can help you better understand what you’re looking for — and ultimately lead you to your dream home.

 

How Do I Find the Best Real Estate Agent for My Needs?

The right real estate agent can make all the difference in your home buying journey. A good place to start is by asking for referrals from friends or family members who have recently bought or sold a home and had a positive experience.

Once you have a few names, interview each agent to get a feel for their personality and see if they’re a good fit. Ask about their experience and what kind of homes they specialize in. Do they understand your target market? How will they go about helping you find your dream home?

Don’t forget to also ask about their fees and any other important details, including how they manage communication and paperwork throughout the process. There’s nothing worse than an agent who goes missing in action when you need them most.

 

The Bottom Line

By taking the time to figure out what you want and need in a home, you can create the ultimate dream home checklist that will keep you focused as you search for the perfect property.

When you’re ready to take the next step, be sure to hire a reputable real estate agent or advisor who has your best interests at heart and knows the ins and outs of the homebuying process.

At Elegran, we pride ourselves on being a one-stop-shop for all your real estate needs. Our experienced agents are ready to help you find your ideal home, so you can make the dream a reality.

For more information or to get started with your search, reach out to an Elegran advisor today.