Finding your first Home

Finding your first home can be a daunting task.  Once you have your pre-approval letter and you’re ready to buy, a checklist can help bring some order to the process. With so many variations and styles it can be difficult to separate the things you need vs. the the features you want.

Begin your home search by analyzing your needs and wants.

I normally begin by asking you questions about the style of  home you’re interested in, for instance are you considering a two story

Home style found in Plaza Midwood area of Charlotte NC

home or a ranch – so let’s start from there. We’ll call that style. After style, let’s consider how many bedrooms & baths you’ll need (or want).

• Do you prefer a formal dining area?
• Will you need an office?
• Do you have a preference for a garage – some folks don’t need or want a garage, others prefer anything from 1 car to 3 or more.
• While you’re considering garages what are your storage needs?
• Do you have an RV, other recreational vehicles or hobbies, or perhaps a need to keep business inventory close by?

Many of these questions, when answered will begin to fill a picture of the home you’re searching for.

Keep in mind, while your needs are most important, your wants can play an important role in establishing your happy home.

• Would you like a fireplace – wood burning or gas?
• Do you prefer hardwood floors, tile or some other surface?
• Do you want a fenced backyard, a patio, screened porch, pool or deck?
• Do you prefer dark cabinets in the  kitchen or light, perhaps granite or solid surface counters?

As you work through this process you’ll begin to form a strong image of what you’re looking for.

This preparation, tempered by your REALTOR’s understanding of the market, can help you quickly narrow the selection of homes that are right for you. Working through your list and sharing it with your broker can also prepare and manage your expectations – the home you’re thinking of may or may not be available at the price you’re willing to pay.

Using the checklist and working with your Realtor can prepare you for this upfront and you can make sure your needs and wants fit your buying power.

Click here to download the Charlotte Real Estate Home Buyer Checklist