Committing to buying a house is a big decision. Start by defining your goals and needs, deciding what you can afford, discovering the most important features, and choosing a real estate agent who will help meet these needs.
As a starting point for your real estate consultation, we recommend completing the following questions.
BUDGET RANGE
• Target Budget ________________________
• Maximum Budget ________________________
PREFERRED PROPERTY TYPE
• Condo/Apartment
• Multiplex
• Townhouse
• Vacation Home
• Single-Family Home
• Other ______________
PROPERTY FEATURES NEED/WANT
• How many bedrooms do you need? ____________ ____________
• How many bathrooms do you need? ____________ ____________
• Do you need space for a home office? ____________ ____________
• What kind of parking facilities do you need? ____________ ____________
• Do you require air conditioning? If so, what type? ____________ ____________
• Do you require storage or hobby space? ____________ ____________
• Do you require garden/outdoor space? ____________ ____________
• Is a fireplace or swimming pool high on your list? ____________ ____________
• Do you want special features to save energy, enhance indoor air quality, or reduce environmental impact? ____________ ___________
LIFESTYLE AND LIFE STAGE
Your real estate advisor can help you define your goals and ensure that they fit within your budget so you can find a home and neighbourhood that will meet your needs for the next five to 10 years. This is an integral part of the home-buying process and one that can have a significant impact on your life.
• How long do you plan on staying in this home? ________________________
• Will you need a home that can accommodate different stages of life? ________________________
• Do you have children or plan to have children? ________________________
• Do you have teenagers who will be moving away soon? ________________________
• Do you have family members with special needs? ________________________
• Are you close to retirement? ________________________
• Do you have an older relative who might come to live with you? ________________________
Evaluate your requirements carefully and discuss them with those helping you make your home purchase decision. Once you’ve defined your goals, needs and budget, review them with your real estate advisor so that they can find the homes that best meet your needs.
Download our free Home Buyers’ Guide to receive a comprehensive guide on buying a home. Check out our blog for additional real estate advice on buying, investing or selling.