Your Needs Versus Wants Assessment
There are certain things that a home just has to have to be comfortable. It has to be the right size, have enough bedrooms and bathrooms, be in a convenient location, etc. However, those things differ from person to person. Your needs versus wants assessment is going to be different from anyone elses.
Distinguish Needs from Wants
What you require in a home is different from what you would like to have. Once you’ve identified what you have to have to live comfortably you will have a much easier time finding that home at the price you can afford.
What are your Must Haves?
Think about what it is you have to have in a home. Consider such things as the size (how many square feet) and how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need to accommodate you and your family. Also, decide what type of home you’d like (ranch, two-story, townhouse, etc.). Does it need to have a yard? If so, how big? Does it need to be fenced?
Make a list of these things and include what you need in terms of:
• space
• size
• storage
• location
• amenities
Then, within reason, add a few of the things you’d like to have such as a master suite, French doors, a pool, a garden tub and separate shower, etc. To make this easier, use our handy Property Wish List worksheet to help you identify and prioritize your list. This will also help eliminate wasted time looking at homes that don’t meet your needs.
Once you’ve done this, you can look for homes that have all your needs and as many of your wants as you can afford. Let us know if you need our personal assistance.
Good luck and happy hunting. When you have identified some homes you’d like to tour, please e-mail us now. Or, if we can help you search in any way, just let us know. We’ll be happy to help you find your next home.
Copyright 2007 Nicki Conway