Buyers and Sellers can benefit from thinking ahead in today’s fast-paced real estate market.
Buyers, we recommend you prioritize your needs before it’s crunch time and you’re forced to make fast decisions. Once you have a solid grasp of your budget, it is important to list all the features of a home you would like. Here's a great way to think about them before you begin:
- Must-Haves – If a house doesn't have these features, it won't work for you and your lifestyle (examples: distance from work or loved ones, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, etc.).
- Nice-To-Haves – These are features that you'd love to have but can live without. Nice-To-Haves aren't dealbreakers, but if you find a home that hits all the must-haves and some of these, it's a contender (examples: a second home office, garage, etc.).
- Dream State– This is where you can really think big. Again, these are not features you'll need, but if you find a home in your budget, that has all the must-haves, most of the nice-to-haves, and any of these, it's a clear winner (examples: farmhouse sink, multiple walk-in closets, etc.).
Finally, once you've created your list and categorized it in a way that works for you, discuss and share it with your Buying Team Lead to refine the list further. In addition, Sarah, Wendy and Matt can coach you through the best way to stick to it, and find a home that meets your needs.
Bottom line, crafting your home search checklist may seem like a small task, but it can save you time and money. It's also one of the keys to being successful in today's competitive market.
Sellers, what features of your home are attractive to future Buyers?
We ask each Seller we work with to create a list of features of their home and upgrades they have completed during their ownership. Walk through each room in your house and begin to take notes. Here’s a sample list you can use to guide you.
This list will ensure our marketing is accurate and it will be invaluable during the sales and appraisal process. It will also be very helpful for tax purposes if you have a large gain on your home.
The more organized you are, the more successful you will be in the home buying and selling process.
As always, please reach out to your lead agent with questions.
Dana & Team