Your real estate professional is not just a guide but your best asset when searching for potential homes. They are equipped with the knowledge and experience to navigate the complex world of real estate. However, your agent needs certain key information to find the right fit. Knowing what to tell your agent can help you make the most out of this important partnership, giving you the confidence that you’re on the right path to finding your dream home.
Budget
Figure out what you can afford. Think carefully about all the costs of owning a home—not just the down payment and mortgage. Don’t forget homeowners association fees, maintenance costs, taxes, and private mortgage insurance if needed. Be honest with yourself and your agent about how much you are willing and able to spend. While not necessary, it’s wise to be preapproved or at least prequalified for a particular mortgage amount.
Time frame
Your agent must know if you’re hurrying to find a new place. If you have plenty of time to search, agents will handle that differently, perhaps sending periodic listings that match your wish list.
Location
Be prepared to tell your agent where you want to live, being as specific as possible. Your search may be a more extensive radius around a specific location, such as a particular town or city, or it may be as specific as a single neighborhood. Also, let your agent know if you need to be close to public transportation or in a particular school district. He or she may know of an alternative location you may not have considered.
Type and size
Do you want a single-family home, a condominium, or other property type? Size is also an essential factor. For example, how many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? Do you have a certain square footage in mind? Do you want a small yard or acreage? Think about your space and what is right for your lifestyle. Are you planning a large family? Do you want to maintain a large home or piece of land?
Wish list
Creating a wish list and ranking items from most to least important is a good idea. You may have a certain style of home that you prefer. Many people want a home that is move-in ready. There may be amenities that are important to you. Some of the most common wish list items include updated kitchens and bathrooms, hardwood floors, open floor plans, and big yards. Depending on this list, you might be able to find a home that satisfies all your wants and needs for the right price. But often, buyers need to make tradeoffs.
Deal breakers
All homebuyers have specific things they can’t live with — or without — in a home. Maybe it’s being located next to a busy road or having a driveway on a hill. Or perhaps you must have at least three bedrooms. Whatever your deal breakers might be, tell your agent upfront. You’ll save everyone a lot of time and effort.
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