There are so many things to consider when searching for a home. Here are some helpful links.
What you should look for in a home Guide to Real Estate Terms
My home buying checklist will help you identify some of the most important features when comparing properties.
Note: this is NOT a homework assignment. It is more something to scroll through at your leisure. The goal is to get an idea of what is most important to you. And if we look at multiple properties, be better equipped to compare and contrast them and avoid overlooking something important to you.
Click to download ROBERT'S HOME BUYING CHECKLIST
What is a priority in your search (check all that apply)?
᥆ location ᥆ curb appeal ᥆ schools ᥆ # of bedrooms
᥆ ensuite bathroom ᥆ outdoor living space ᥆ pets
᥆ kitchen ᥆ finished basement ᥆ area for entertaining
᥆ getting a good deal
᥆ other _____________________________
Who do you think will have a big impact on your buying decision?
᥆ family/parents ᥆ friends ᥆ internet searches
᥆ you (real estate agent) ᥆ I can make up my own mind!
᥆ other _____________________________
GENERAL
Where do you want to buy property?
Is there any specific area you prefer?
Do you have a school system or district you would like to live in?
Why are you interested in buying/moving at this time?
How soon do you want to/need to be in a new home?
Are you interested in new homes? Existing homes?
Do you have any specific home features that are a must?
Do you have any specific home features that are a big NO?
Do you have pets? What considerations do you have?
What style do you prefer?
Are stairs okay? What about lots of stairs?
Is an ensuite bathroom important to you?
How many bedrooms/bathrooms would be the perfect size?
Do you want a basement? Is a finished basement important to you?
Do you like open floor plans?
Do you prefer a formal dining room?
Do you need a home office or study?
How important is the outdoor area: patio, deck, fence?
Do you want or need a swimming pool?
Do you want or need an attached garage? How many spaces is ideal?
What size lot would you prefer? Is landscaping important to you?
Home
Square footage
Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
Flow of the floor plan
Interior walls and floors condition
Closet/storage space
Basement: finished, dry, odors
Fireplace
TV / entertainment areas
Exterior appearance, condition
Outdoors: lawn, landscaping, deck, patio, fence
Garage: attached, how many spaces
Energy efficiency
Screens, storm windows
Roof: age and condition
Gutters and downspouts
Traffic
Noise level
Parking
HOA rules / restrictions
Fire protection
Police
Snow removal
Garbage service
Convenience
Highway
Schools
Work
Shopping
Child care
Hospitals
Doctor/dentist
Recreation/parks
Restaurants/entertainment
Church/synagogue
Airport
On to Step 4: Time to Find a Home
Back to 20 Steps to Buying a Home