Finding the perfect home takes plenty of strategy and careful thought. However, with so many important factors to consider, the process can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to make your house hunting journey simpler:
Prioritize price
It's easy to feel discouraged if you don't immediately find options in your price range. Budget is likely at the top of your mind when house hunting, but don't let a number deter you from continuing your search. Housing markets are always changing, meaning price and availability fluctuation. This makes working with a real estate agent extremely beneficial, as they can provide expert advice and often find listings you might otherwise miss. Compromising on price is always an option, but don't give up if your numbers don't match the market right away.
Know what you can change
It's common to find a house that meets your criteria but has unappealing features. Things like decor, paint color and landscaping can be distracting, especially if they don't match your taste. However, you can always repaint and replant a garden after buying the home, so don't let unappealing details keep you from choosing an otherwise perfect home.
It's also important to know what aspects of a home you can't change, such as the location, neighborhood and architectural style. If any of these major issues arise in your home search, it might be time to consider other options.
Ask questions
When you tour a house either in-person or virtually, it's crucial to ask questions. Whether you communicate with an agent or the seller directly, inquire about things you wouldn't learn from a visit. Some examples of good questions to ask include:
When were major systems or appliances last updated or replaced? (Plumbing, HVAC, dishwasher, etc)
How old is the roof?
How comfortable is the house during hot or cold weather?
What exactly is included in the sale? (Light fixtures, window treatments, appliances)
Questions like these can help you identify potential issues or hidden benefits. Try making a list of questions to ask beforehand to help you remember the basics and inquire about other details as they arise.
House hunting is different for everyone. While most buyers follow the same basic steps, the experience varies dramatically depending on your focus. Keep these tips in mind during your home search to make the best decision.
About the Author
Julie Pieczonka
Hi- I am Julie Pieczonka and I would love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I would be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.
I am a retired fitness education and health education teacher. I decided to satisfy a long-time goal of mine and become a Realtor. This continues my desire to serve others and am so fortunate to have had amazing success. I served as an Ohio & Indiana Realtor, was a member of the Ohio Association of Realtor's President's Club 2015, 2016 & 2017; and a member of the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtor's Circle of Excellence Club 2015, 2016 & 2017. Realtor of the Year for Sellstate Platinum Realty in 2020.
My husband and I (and our two golden retrievers) have become permanent Florida residents as I acted as a referral agent only in Ohio and Indiana from 2018 through the present.
I am actively practice my love for Real Estate here in the Sunshine State.
I absolutely enjoy assisting my clients in one of the biggest decisions they will make in their lives —that's buying and selling real estate.
Cordially-
Your Active Agent,
Julie
