STEP 4 - HOUSE BUYING CRITERIA
Alright Alright.... You’re finally ready to find your dream home, and that’s so exciting. right? You’ve made the decision to stop renting and start looking for a place to call your own. This is a big moment, and having a real estate agent by your side is the best way to make sure you find exactly what you want. House hunting can be a lot of fun, but it can also be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for. That’s why it’s so important to have a clear idea of what you need and want in a home by filling out a house buying criteria form.
Start by making a list of what’s absolutely essential in a house, what would be nice to have, and what’s a deal-breaker. Along with the budget you’ve set, this list will help narrow down your choices and keep you focused. Your real estate agent will be your guide through the process, but it’s also important to trust your gut. If you love a house but it needs a few repairs, it might still be worth it. On the other hand, don’t settle for a house that doesn’t feel right, even if all the details seem perfect. Time is important, though—if you need to move by a certain date, make sure you keep that in mind while searching. In competitive markets, other buyers might want the same house, so acting fast is key!
STEP 4 - HOUSE BUYING CRITERIA
Alright Alright.... You’re finally ready to find your dream home, and that’s so exciting. right? You’ve made the decision to stop renting and start looking for a place to call your own. This is a big moment, and having a real estate agent by your side is the best way to make sure you find exactly what you want. House hunting can be a lot of fun, but it can also be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for. That’s why it’s so important to have a clear idea of what you need and want in a home by filling out a house buying criteria form.
Start by making a list of what’s absolutely essential in a house, what would be nice to have, and what’s a deal-breaker. Along with the budget you’ve set, this list will help narrow down your choices and keep you focused. Your real estate agent will be your guide through the process, but it’s also important to trust your gut. If you love a house but it needs a few repairs, it might still be worth it. On the other hand, don’t settle for a house that doesn’t feel right, even if all the details seem perfect. Time is important, though—if you need to move by a certain date, make sure you keep that in mind while searching. In competitive markets, other buyers might want the same house, so acting fast is key!
HOUSE BUYING CHECKLIST
Here’s a helpful house buying checklist to make sure you and your agent are on the same page while looking for a house to buy:
1. HOME DETAILS:
- Square footage: Enough room for you, your furniture, and your pizza parties.
- Number of bedrooms: Make sure everyone gets their own space—no one likes sharing forever!
- Number of bathrooms: More bathrooms = fewer fights in the morning rush!
- Practicality of floor plan: You don't want to get lost trying to find the kitchen.
- Condition of interior walls: No mysterious holes, cracks, or "artwork" from previous residents.
- Closet and storage space: Enough room to hide all the stuff you swear you'll organize one day.
- Basement: Spooky or cozy? You decide, but dampness and odors aren’t a good sign.
- Fireplace: Perfect for cozy nights—or pretending you’re in a holiday movie.
- Cable TV availability: Because Netflix marathons are non-negotiable.
- Exterior appearance and condition: Does the outside say "dream home" or "fixer-upper"?
- Yard space and lawn: Room for pets, BBQs, or your wild gardening dreams.
- Fence, patio, or deck: A little privacy for your backyard adventures—or your neighbor’s.
- Garage: A place for your car… or all the stuff that won't fit in the house!
- Energy efficiency: Saves money on bills so you can afford more takeout.
- Screens and storm windows: Keeps out bugs and the cold—plus no surprise “insect roommates.”
- Roof: A sturdy one means no surprise rain showers… indoors.
- Gutters and downspouts: Let’s hope they actually guide the rainwater away from the house.
2. NEIGHBORHOOD INFORMATION
- Condition of nearby homes and businesses: Are your neighbors as neat as your dream home?
- Traffic in the area: Quiet street or Grand Prix?
- Noise levels: Check if you’ll need earplugs or if it’s peaceful enough for midday naps.
- Safety and security: Can you leave your front door unlocked without a second thought?
- Age mix of neighbors: See if you’ll be surrounded by kids or the “retired and loving it” crew.
- Number of children in the area: If you have kids, playmates nearby are a bonus.
- Pet restrictions: Fluffy the dog or Mittens the cat will appreciate the heads-up!
- Parking availability: No one wants to circle the block forever hunting for a parking spot.
- Zoning regulations: No surprise factories or loud businesses popping up next door.
- Neighborhood restrictions or covenants: Rules to follow, or your mailbox can’t be purple.
- Fire protection services: Is the fire department close enough if your cooking goes wrong?
- Police presence: Feel safe without feeling like you live in a cop movie.
- Snow removal services: Who’s going to shovel the driveway—nature, the city, or you?
- Garbage service: Trash day shouldn't feel like a mystery quest.
3. SCHOOLS:
- Age and condition of schools: Fancy new building or a building held together with duct tape?
- School reputation: Will your kids brag or groan about their school?
- Quality of teachers: Teachers who inspire or teachers who just want the bell to ring.
- Test scores and achievements: Will your kids be future rocket scientists or just really good at running around at recess?
- Play areas and extracurriculars: Because kids need more than textbooks and homework.
- Curriculum and class size: Personalized learning or the “crowded classroom shuffle”?
- Distance to school bus stops: A short quiet safe walk, or an epic journey every morning through bad neighborhoods?
4. CONVENIENCE:
- Proximity to supermarkets: For those late-night snack runs and forgotten milk.
- Distance to schools and work: Because nobody likes a long commute (unless you love car karaoke).
- Shopping options nearby: Is there a mall or just a corner store with questionable snacks?
- Child care availability: The closer the daycare, the fewer meltdowns (for you and the kids).
- Hospitals and medical services: It’s always good to know where to go for “oops, I need stitches.”
- Recreation and parks: Is there a place for fun, or just grass to stare at?
- Restaurants and entertainment options: For when you don’t feel like cooking or watching Netflix again.
- Places of worship: Close enough to stay connected to your faith community.
- Airport, highways, and public transportation: Easy travel—whether it’s for work, vacation, or a quick getaway!
Why Narrowing Down Your Criteria Matters:
Having clear buying criteria is crucial. You don’t want to buy a house only to realize later that it doesn’t meet your needs. That’s what we call BUYER'S REMORSE. By working with your real estate agent and sticking to your list, you’ll avoid regret and make sure you’re truly happy with the home you choose!
Legal Note: Your real estate agent CAN'T give you information about the demographics in specific areas due to fair housing laws, so you’ll need to do your own research on that.
Here’s a helpful house buying checklist to make sure you and your agent are on the same page while looking for a house to buy:
1. HOME DETAILS:
- Square footage: Enough room for you, your furniture, and your pizza parties.
- Number of bedrooms: Make sure everyone gets their own space—no one likes sharing forever!
- Number of bathrooms: More bathrooms = fewer fights in the morning rush!
- Practicality of floor plan: You don't want to get lost trying to find the kitchen.
- Condition of interior walls: No mysterious holes, cracks, or "artwork" from previous residents.
- Closet and storage space: Enough room to hide all the stuff you swear you'll organize one day.
- Basement: Spooky or cozy? You decide, but dampness and odors aren’t a good sign.
- Fireplace: Perfect for cozy nights—or pretending you’re in a holiday movie.
- Cable TV availability: Because Netflix marathons are non-negotiable.
- Exterior appearance and condition: Does the outside say "dream home" or "fixer-upper"?
- Yard space and lawn: Room for pets, BBQs, or your wild gardening dreams.
- Fence, patio, or deck: A little privacy for your backyard adventures—or your neighbor’s.
- Garage: A place for your car… or all the stuff that won't fit in the house!
- Energy efficiency: Saves money on bills so you can afford more takeout.
- Screens and storm windows: Keeps out bugs and the cold—plus no surprise “insect roommates.”
- Roof: A sturdy one means no surprise rain showers… indoors.
- Gutters and downspouts: Let’s hope they actually guide the rainwater away from the house.
2. NEIGHBORHOOD INFORMATION
- Condition of nearby homes and businesses: Are your neighbors as neat as your dream home?
- Traffic in the area: Quiet street or Grand Prix?
- Noise levels: Check if you’ll need earplugs or if it’s peaceful enough for midday naps.
- Safety and security: Can you leave your front door unlocked without a second thought?
- Age mix of neighbors: See if you’ll be surrounded by kids or the “retired and loving it” crew.
- Number of children in the area: If you have kids, playmates nearby are a bonus.
- Pet restrictions: Fluffy the dog or Mittens the cat will appreciate the heads-up!
- Parking availability: No one wants to circle the block forever hunting for a parking spot.
- Zoning regulations: No surprise factories or loud businesses popping up next door.
- Neighborhood restrictions or covenants: Rules to follow, or your mailbox can’t be purple.
- Fire protection services: Is the fire department close enough if your cooking goes wrong?
- Police presence: Feel safe without feeling like you live in a cop movie.
- Snow removal services: Who’s going to shovel the driveway—nature, the city, or you?
- Garbage service: Trash day shouldn't feel like a mystery quest.
3. SCHOOLS:
- Age and condition of schools: Fancy new building or a building held together with duct tape?
- School reputation: Will your kids brag or groan about their school?
- Quality of teachers: Teachers who inspire or teachers who just want the bell to ring.
- Test scores and achievements: Will your kids be future rocket scientists or just really good at running around at recess?
- Play areas and extracurriculars: Because kids need more than textbooks and homework.
- Curriculum and class size: Personalized learning or the “crowded classroom shuffle”?
- Distance to school bus stops: A short quiet safe walk, or an epic journey every morning through bad neighborhoods?
4. CONVENIENCE:
- Proximity to supermarkets: For those late-night snack runs and forgotten milk.
- Distance to schools and work: Because nobody likes a long commute (unless you love car karaoke).
- Shopping options nearby: Is there a mall or just a corner store with questionable snacks?
- Child care availability: The closer the daycare, the fewer meltdowns (for you and the kids).
- Hospitals and medical services: It’s always good to know where to go for “oops, I need stitches.”
- Recreation and parks: Is there a place for fun, or just grass to stare at?
- Restaurants and entertainment options: For when you don’t feel like cooking or watching Netflix again.
- Places of worship: Close enough to stay connected to your faith community.
- Airport, highways, and public transportation: Easy travel—whether it’s for work, vacation, or a quick getaway!
Why Narrowing Down Your Criteria Matters:
Having clear buying criteria is crucial. You don’t want to buy a house only to realize later that it doesn’t meet your needs. That’s what we call BUYER'S REMORSE. By working with your real estate agent and sticking to your list, you’ll avoid regret and make sure you’re truly happy with the home you choose!
Legal Note: Your real estate agent CAN'T give you information about the demographics in specific areas due to fair housing laws, so you’ll need to do your own research on that.
WHAT DO YOU DO NOW?
Your action step right now... right here... is to fill out the BUYER CRITERIA QUIESTIONNAIRE below.. This is another crucial step in your house buying journey. This step is mandatory, because the realtor needs this information to produce the properties you want.
Once you enter your information, you will be connected to a trusted real estate agent in your area.
Just think... in less than 30 days, you could be walking into your very own house!!! Exciting right?
Your action step right now... right here... is to fill out the BUYER CRITERIA QUIESTIONNAIRE below.. This is another crucial step in your house buying journey. This step is mandatory, because the realtor needs this information to produce the properties you want.
Once you enter your information, you will be connected to a trusted real estate agent in your area.
Just think... in less than 30 days, you could be walking into your very own house!!! Exciting right?
BUYER CRITERIA QUESTIONNAIRE
Personal Info
Lifestyle
Location
Home
House - Exterior
House - Interior
SO WHAT'S NEXT?
Once you've finished putting together your criteria list, we will connect you to a trusted real estate agent. You don't want to try and do this all by yourself, because there are tons of details that you do not understand during the buying process that the agent can help you with like: the contracts and terms and negotiations and etc etc etc...
So, click the link below to go to the next step.
Once you've finished putting together your criteria list, we will connect you to a trusted real estate agent. You don't want to try and do this all by yourself, because there are tons of details that you do not understand during the buying process that the agent can help you with like: the contracts and terms and negotiations and etc etc etc...
So, click the link below to go to the next step.