5 Steps to Find a Home You’ll Love

The home of your dreams is waiting for you! Follow these steps to find the next (home) love of your life.

Know where you want to live. Narrow down your desired location as much as you can: know the neighborhoods you prefer, or even better, pick a few key blocks that you love. Then determine how far away from the perfect spot you’re willing to go.

Know the features you absolutely need, the ones you’d very much like to have, the ones you can live without, and the ones you definitely don’t want. For example, you need a home office, really want three bathrooms, would like a pool (but it’s not a dealbreaker), and definitely do not want more than two stories.

Know your budget. Getting pre-approved for home financing helps you set your homebuying budget and shows sellers that you are a serious buyer.

Choose an agent you trust and like. You want to get along, but more importantly, you want an agent that knows the neighborhood, listens to and understands your wants and needs, and has your best interests in mind.

Stick with it. It may take a little longer than you hoped, and you may have to compromise a little, but the (home) love of your life is out there!