Step 19 of 48 Phase 3: House Hunt in Earnest
3.2 My Future Home
Before you tour homes, clearly define what you need versus what you want. This clarity helps you make faster decisions and avoid falling in love with homes that do not meet your essential requirements.
Key Questions to Consider
- How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you absolutely need?
- Do you need a home office, guest room, or dedicated spaces?
- What are your must-haves that you cannot compromise on?
- What are your deal-breakers that would eliminate a property?
- How important is outdoor space (yard, patio, garden)?
Home Features Checklist
| Category | Must Have | Nice to Have | Deal Breaker If |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Min bedrooms/baths | Extra space | Too small |
| Condition | Move-in ready? | Updated kitchen | Major repairs needed |
| Layout | Open floor plan? | Formal dining | Poor flow |
| Systems | Working HVAC | New roof | Old electrical |
| Lot | Adequate parking | Large yard | No outdoor space |
| Features | Garage? | Fireplace | HOA restrictions |
Pro Tips
- Distinguish needs (must have) from wants (nice to have)
- Consider your 5-year plan - will you outgrow this home?
- Think about resale value even if you plan to stay long-term
- Be realistic about renovation projects you are willing to take on
- Remember: you can change paint and fixtures, not location or lot size