Tips for Finding Your Dream Home

Finding your dream home can be a tiring and stressful process for many home buyers. Those who are
looking to buy a house think that searching for that ideal residential property will be fun. However, the actual search weighs them down. Why is it that so many home buyers struggle to find their dream
home?
The reason is that they dive into the real estate search without any preparation. Before you start
searching for your dream, it is important to prepare yourself. So, to help you find your dream home,
we’ll highlight a few important tips that you need to keep in mind when searching a close-to-perfect
home to buy.

1. Get Pre-Approved
If you wish to successfully buy your dream home, it is essential that you get pre-approved before
searching for the home. By getting pre-approved, you’ll know the amount the lender can give you to
spend on your home. Thus, you won’t eye a home that is beyond your reach. The pre-approval letter will provide assurance to sellers that you have the money to close the deal.

2. Make a List of Everything You Need and Want
It is important to know the difference between what you need and what you want. This can be referred to as a reality check and a wish list. Make a list of everything you want. Then, determine the things you can and cannot sacrifice. For example, you may not be willing to sacrifice a big kitchen, but you may give up on wanting a two-car garage. Now make another list that includes the things you need. For example, you might be eager to get a five-bedroom home, when the need is only for a home with four bedrooms.

3. Know the Neighborhood
Although real estate agents can help you find the perfect neighborhood, it is essential to do some
research on your own. Before you decide to make the offer, research the neighborhood to determine
whether it has all the amenities you desire. There are several websites that can help you research the
neighborhoods and all their amenities.

4. Remember That There is No Such Thing as a “Perfect House”

When searching your dream home, remember that there is no such thing as a “perfect house”. When
you’re making a decision, you’ll have to compromise on a few things to get closest to what you envision as your dream home. If you find a home that meets all your needs and a few wants as well, then you should consider making an offer.

5. The Offer Should be Close to the List Price
Never lowball sellers. Real estate agents recommended making a low offer when housing prices were
dropping, but this isn’t the case anymore. If you make a low offer now, you can very well lose your
chances of buying your dream home. Therefore, make an offer that is close to the list price to ensure
that the seller takes it and you get your dream home.