Have you ever gone on a home date with a property that sounded promising in photos and on paper, but when it came time to sit down and really look at it, your initial impressions fell flat? With low inventory and high housing costs, this can often happen–but it doesn’t have to.

If you keep an open mind and take your time, you’ll find the right house for you and not just another property on your list. In this market, that can sometimes mean compromising on one or two items on your checklist but not on the major ones such as location, size and type of home.

Getting your wish list in order and being realistic about your budget is key to finding the perfect home. It’s also important to focus on what is truly important for you and your family. Don’t settle for a smaller home than what you really need or buy a larger space when you are planning on kids in the future, for example. Bigger homes have higher utility bills and require more maintenance.

It’s also important to listen to the advice of your real estate agent, who is there to guide you through the process. If you have a family member or friend making a financial contribution to the purchase, they may be able to offer valuable input, but they should limit their opinions to matters related to the finances of the transaction and leave the final decision to you.

You should also be sure to keep the future in mind when selecting a new home. Is the area likely to be served by a new highway or bridge within the next five years? What are the zoning laws and what other developments could be coming to the neighborhood? If you are unsure, ask your real estate agent about the area and the local market.

Buying a perfect home is a goal but it’s not impossible. Just remember to stay focused on your priority list and don’t get hung up on minor flaws or allow yourself to be blinded by the “Wow!” factor. If you’re ready to start the search for your new dream home, our experienced team of experts is here to help. We can answer your questions, show you properties that meet your criteria and help you navigate the entire home-buying process from start to finish. Contact us today to learn more about our services and get started!