Your Wants VersusYour Needs

Setting Aside Your Emotions

Choosing your first home that's right for you is a very personal decision. Some first-time homebuyers may have a "just know" moment when they discover their next home, but it is important that you don't rely too much on an emotional response when preparing to make such a large commitment. At this point it is important to prioritize your homebuying choices and separate your wants from your needs. Many people find writing things down helpful at this stage, since it forces you to put your feelings into words. To get started right away, check out my complimentary First-Time Homebuyer Checklist and fill it out, keeping the questions below in mind.

To start with, ask yourself these questions:

Does the location fit your needs? Make sure the home you pick is close to the things that are important to you. Consider commute times to your office, shopping accessibility and the school district.

Will your lifestyle fit the home comfortably? Will your furniture fit in your new home? Are you really willing to carry laundry up and down the stairs? Consider that it may not be worth paying for a yard if you won't actually have the time to maintain and enjoy it.

Is the home near a busy street or intersection? This might not be a concern for now, but when you consider how long you may end up living in the home you might change your mind. Try to anticipate your changing needs. Remember, at some point you are going to sell your first home. Always buy a home with the idea that you will be marketing it someday.

Do you know your wants versus your needs?

There are some features you will “need” in your first home. Examples may include “ must have” features like 2.5 baths or maybe a downstairs master bedroom. For many first-time homebuyers, you may “ want” to have a large yard for your child or maybe your pet. However, it wouldn’t be a deal breaker if you didn’t have a large yard. Knowing your needs versus your wants is very important and will be a topic of our discussion during our initial homebuyer assessment meeting.

Because buying your first home is likely to be your biggest investment, it isn't a good idea to buy it based on ideals. A Dream Home becomes a whole lot more real when you are faced with regular mortgage payments, so it is important you don't pay for features that you won't really benefit from. On the other hand, if you don’t find a home that truly meets your needs don’t compromise. Together we will find right home at the right price for you and your needs and wants. Contact me and we can get you started on the right foot.

Request your complimentary First-Time Homebuyers Checklist now!

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