Planning and Looking Online

Setting your expectations for what you need vs what you want in a home will make the entire process more pleasant.  Rarely a buyer or group of buyers (couple, friends, family) will get a 10/10 home from their wishlist.  It is just the reality of buying a pre-owned home. If you are building new construction, you could shoot for a 10/10, but often you still need to be flexible on some things, such as flooring choices, appliances, roof tile, etc.

So, if you and your co-buyer(s) create a list of all the must-haves, would like to have, and nice to have, it will help when deciding.  Also, list the things you would be willing to budge on and which are a make or break. Even better if your lists are similar or you can come together with one. Talking about these with your partner and co-purchaser ahead of time is paramount to your success.

Buying pre-owned homes in vastly different neighbourhoods, lot sizes, ages etc., provide a unique buying experience; it is not a matter of picking something off the shelf. You are doing great if you can get a 7/10 off your list. Anything better than that is gold!  

You have access now so that you can look anytime online. When can you look in person? Open houses are an excellent introduction to house shopping. Your realtor may go with you to an open house or like to be in the loop if you are going. Sign in when you arrive and let the host know you are already represented.

Open houses are a great way to learn what you like and don’t like, especially if it is your first time. It's also a great way to get to know your local market. How much is the home listed for? What do you think about the price? And what does it sell for (particularly if it is a fast market, this is excellent info)? You can turn it into a game.

You can officially go shopping when you are pre-approved (or have an accepted offer to sell your home)!  Look for the next part in this series… House Hunting.