Wish vs Want when considering a new home.

There's a lot of daydreaming going on these days with the change of season teasing us (we really wish Spring was just around the corner but which corner!) as the weather goes up and down. Also, the interest rate speculation and new government changes concerning mortgages has people thinking and looking.

It's a good idea to write out a list before looking at properties. It's almost as important as getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Some couples may save a lot of disagreeing by making up 'his' and 'her' lists also:)

We all have big dreams. Dreams are free so that part is easy. But then comes reality and practicality right behind dreamland, forcing us to get down to the nitty gritty of what we can afford, what we NEED and what we WANT. This is where the list comes in handy. Write down everything you would love to have in your new home i.e. 2.5 bathrooms, an ensuite, an open family room to kitchen, number of bedrooms, floor finishes etc. And then go through that same list and rate everything 1, 2 and 3. 1 is 'have to have' and 2 and 3 follow. 2 could be if budget affords and 3 could be something to add later down the road i.e. an improvement when the money flow is better.

Doing this exercise will really help with expectations and allow you to set realistic goals-especially if there are two people involved in the buying process. You can make more rationale decisions when they are on paper and you have had some time to process them. This will help both you and your agent narrow in on properties that fit your criteria and in the end, will save you lots of time and avoid too much conflict.

As always, I love to hear from current, past and prospective clients! I'm available for any questions you may have or to meet with you about your needs.

Working for you every day!

Joanne