Buying a home is one of the most exciting and stressful decisions you'll ever make. A lot of buyers miss out on the important details hidden when buying a new home and they end up regretting afterwards.

Here at The Williams Team, we want you to be more than prepared for possibly one of your most important life decisions. We will equip you with enough information to hopefully achieve the following: 

*Make a list of your must-have home features.

*Focus on layout and flow.

*Envision how you will use the spaces.

*Take notes on likes, dislikes, & deal breakers.

*Trust your instincts when you find "the one".

This is of course the best article to read after you have determined your budget and location - Also, you should have an idea of how to get preapproved for your home by now. If not, don't worry, we have a perfect article for you. Head on to www.thewilliamsteam.com/blog for great tips on saving up for a house, what loans could be available to you, and the unique highlights of all parishes and cities for you to choose the best lifestyle fit!

As you search for your dream house, keep an eye out for these key factors to ensure you find the perfect fit:

1.)Make peace of your housing “needs” and “wants”

Before starting your home search, get crystal clear on your must-haves and your budget. Make a list of the absolutely essential features you need, like the number of bedrooms, home office space, or yard. These are going to be your non-negotiables. Make sure that these features are reasonably within the price point that you set for your next house.

Also, list nice-to-have features like granite counters or a garage— this is your “great to have but not dealbreaker”

If you have the budget, there are no right or wrong answers, the features are completely up to you! If stuck between need and want, think about the cost. Something expensive to add later, like a garage, should be a need.

Use your lists to filter online listings and provide them to your agent. They will find properties that match your requirements. Your agents could also provide solutions based on what you want if the price tag doesn't match - like alternatives, or a quick fix that you can improve later when the budget approves. Stay focused on the basics that are most important and you'll be in your dream home before you know it. Don't settle for a place that doesn't have what you absolutely desire—your forever home is out there!

2.) Focus on the big picture

When viewing homes, it’s easy to get distracted by outdated finishes and decor that don’t match your taste. But keep the big picture in mind. 

Focus on the home's bones - the foundation, roof, layout, and utility systems. These structural elements are far more important for the long haul than the wallpaper or appliances that are simple and inexpensive to update down the road.

Imagine how you could put your personal stamp on each space. Envision fresh paint colors in the living room, new tile in the bathroom, and your furniture arranged just how you'd like. With some tweaks and DIY projects, you can transform even the most outdated house into your dream home.

Of course, be mindful of major repairs needed. But don't let superficial fix-ups deter you from an otherwise solid home. Focus on fundamentals first, then picture how you'll customize the cosmetics to suit your style. Finding a home with good bones in the right location for you is key - the rest you can make your own.

3.) Don’t be afraid to ask Questions!

Go full detective mode at showings and open houses! Buying a house without knowing more about it, is like marrying someone without knowing their age, what their parents look like, or what their needs are! This is your chance to sleuth out everything about your potential new home before saying "I do." at the closing table.

Ask the agent about facts that matter (I assure you, they are ready for it!). Start with how long it's been on the market, why owners are bailing, appliance ages, and past leaks. Nothing is TMI when finding “The One”.

In the kitchen, turn on the faucet to check the water pressure. In the basement, scan for creepy crawly clues of moisture. Learn the backstory of every renovation, quirk, and well-loved space.

Outdoors, ask about landscaping drama and gardening visions.

Leave no stone unturned! For a mega list of open house questions, visit: https://homebuyer.com/learn/questions-to-ask-at-an-open-house

4.)Do the “House Fit” Check!

If a picture paints a thousand words, then being there in person speaks volumes. Even if listings show room dimensions, numbers don't always do the space justice. Staged and virtual homes appear deceptively spacious, so visualize your belongings in each area at the actual spot! Will your furniture and stuff make the space feel cramped? Mentally arrange your couches, beds, and tables to see if rooms will function as needed. Don't trust appearances - imagined layouts reveal a room's true size.

Imagine how your furniture would look in the living room - is there room for your sectional and TV console? Picture hosting dinner parties around the dining table or lounging in the backyard. Envision where you would work remotely or how the kids would play. Consider if any renovations like opening up walls or adding a mudroom are needed to optimize the layout.

Make sure there's space for your hobbies like gardening or crafting. The right home aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals. So envision yourself living, working, and playing in each nook and cranny. Taking time to picture your life in the home will give you a sense of it's a good fit.

Do your due diligence and you'll buy with confidence, no surprises. Now grab your magnifying glass and inspect those properties! If you’re still unsure of what to do, we’re here to help you. Visit www.thewilliamsteam.com now and get an expert to join you hand in hand to find the best house fit for you.

_______________________________