BEFORE YOU START LOOKING AT HOMES
Start by identifying preferred and ideal locations based on your needs, social activities, job location and lifestyle preference. Since you are new to the area, get familiar by driving around some of the neighborhoods at different times of the day. Once targeted locations are identified, it is important to define living needs within the house and the style you seek.
For example, how many bedrooms and bathrooms are needed and are there special requests, such as ample kitchen counter space or an island in the kitchen for food preparation? Are there preferences for the kitchen, such as gourmet features with top-of-the-line equipment or will a functional kitchen be acceptable? What about the importance of having a family room or backyard? What architectural and aesthetic preferences are important – single level, multilevel, traditional or contemporary, bold and modern or warm and rustic? What about a swimming pool, a scenic view or a big yard – are any of these items a priority? If so, we will need to know. A discussion about location or proximity to certain facilities and amenities is also an important conversation as it will influence a family’s opinion of a property.
