Home Town Realty Partners LLC
Destin Lowery, Home Town Realty Partners LLCPhone: (850) 225-5009
Email: [email protected]

What Is a Home-Buying Wish List ?

by Destin Lowery 02/07/2021


 Photo by evondue via Pixabay

A home-buying wish list may sound like a cathartic way to imagine a dream home that's dripping with luxury everywhere you turn, but it's really a practical way to help homeowners narrow down their options. When buyers look at too many homes, they may find that each property starts to run together. Use this tool as a means of viewing just a few homes that will meet all of your criteria. 

Questions to Ask 

Wish lists start with the answers to the following questions:

  • Would you be willing to purchase a home that's more than 10 years old? More than 70?
  •  Do you need to live near a bus or subway line?
  • Can children be driven to school or will they need to walk?
  • How much effort are you willing to put into repairs and renovations?
  • Do you need a formal dining area or can a table be placed in the kitchen?
  • Will you need to prepare for the home for those with physical disabilities?

If you're planning to host your elderly parents at some point, you may need to look for a one-story ranch for maximum accessibility. Similarly, if you're planning to have children, you may want to buy a home with carpeting to provide extra traction for unsteady feet. While a lender will have the ultimate say in how much you can afford, you have plenty of control over the home you choose within your budget. 

The Wants 

As buyers sketch out their wish list, they should separate it into the absolute deal-breakers. For example, you may prefer a full two bathrooms but you'll settle for one full plus a half bathroom. Consider how large of a yard you want, the ideal type of HVAC system, and the type of home that will work best for you Some people prefer smaller homes so they can cut back on the amount of cleaning and maintenance they have to perform. 

Room for Flexibility 

If there aren't many homes that are meeting your minimum criteria, be prepared to be a little flexible along the way. You can always install carpeting or central air if you absolutely need to. You may also need to compromise on the age of the home, which is highly encouraged as long as the home passes inspection. 

A wish list doesn't have to be the defining document for a home, but it can keep you from seeing homes that are absolutely not right for you. The more you can streamline your home buying journey, the less stressful the transition will be. 

About the Author
Author

Destin Lowery

Destin Lowery has been selling Destin and the Emerald Coast for over 23 years!!! One of her Top Mentors, David Collins, who is now the  Broker/Owner of her new reality brokerage is a pioneer in the industry!!! She received her Real Estate license from him in August 1999. Destin always believed that Learning from the Best is key in Real Estate. Destin’s gives credit for her drive and love for Real Estate to her Father and Mother.  If you are looking to Buy or Sell in Destin or the Emerald Coast, Destin Lowery is your girl to connect with!!!