Look For a Home

Start by grabbing the list you made when first deciding if buying a home was in your best interest. Make a copy for your agent as well so that you both know what you are looking for in a home. Now you’re ready to start looking.

Your Realtor® will take your criteria and find several homes for you to see in person. You may want to have a large list of homes sent to your email address so you can narrow it down to those you like best. It is common for homebuyers to see several before finding the one that suits them best. You may even start your search by browsing online at what is in your price range. This will give you a good idea of what the market is like, where homes are selling, and where new construction is booming, etc. Click here to search the MLS

Once you and your Realtor® have a good idea of what type of home suits you best, it is time to go out with your Realtor® and see some homes in person. You may want to take some notes while you are in each home so you remember what you liked and did not like about each property.

Some good questions to ask yourself are:

• How is the exterior of the property?
• Is the neighborhood what you expected?
• What do the surrounding houses look like?
• What changes would you need to make to the home in order for it to be livable?
• What major repairs are needed, if any (such as a roof or wiring)?
• How old are the appliances?
• How old are the mechanical systems (heating, plumbing, electrical)?
• Is the house well maintained?
• Does the home have any significant architecture features that add value?
• Does the home have any attractive landscaping features that add value?
• How close are the community attractions (parks, etc.)?
• Are the schools and shops nearby (this would add value to the home)?

At this time, feel free to talk to neighbors and ask them how they like living in the area to get an idea of what it would be like for you. Remember, this is a big commitment and you may be moving next door to these people, so now is the time to find out if it is a good fit.