Selling April 6, 2025

How to Handle Multiple Offers on a Home Sale

Receiving multiple offers on your home can be both exciting and overwhelming. It’s a sign that your property is in high demand, but at the same time, it can make the decision-making process more complex. How do you choose the right offer? How can you negotiate to get the best possible outcome? This article covers everything you need to know about confidently navigating multiple offers.

Step 1: Understand the Market

Before evaluating offers, take a moment to understand your local real estate market. Is it a seller’s market where demand exceeds supply? Or is it a more balanced market? Knowing this will give you insights into why you receive multiple offers and how much leverage you have during negotiations. Work with your real estate agent to analyze recent comparable sales in your area to ensure your expectations are realistic.

Step 2: Assess All Offers Holistically

While the highest price may grab your attention, remember there’s more to an offer than just the dollar amount. Consider these other factors:

  • Financing Contingency: Is the buyer pre-approved for a mortgage? Cash offers are especially attractive, as they eliminate the risk of financing falling through.
  • Contingencies: Look out for conditions such as inspections, appraisals, or the buyer needing to sell their home first. Fewer contingencies often mean a quicker, smoother transaction.
  • Closing Timeline: Is the buyer’s proposed closing date aligned with your plans? If you’re in a rush to sell or have a specific timeline, this can be a deciding factor.
  • Earnest Money Deposit: This is the amount of money the buyer puts down to show they’re serious about the transaction. A higher deposit demonstrates commitment and financial stability.

By weighing all these components, you’ll have a clearer picture of serious and beneficial offers.

Step 3: Communicate Through Your Real Estate Agent

Your real estate agent is your ally in managing multiple offers. They can:

  • Organize the Offers: Agents typically create a side-by-side comparison of all offers, laying out key details to help you make an informed decision.
  • Negotiate on Your Behalf: Whether it’s asking for higher earnest money, better terms, or a more flexible timeline, your agent will handle the back-and-forth to secure the best deal.
  • Ensure Transparency: Protect yourself legally by handling all offers professionally and ethically.

Leverage their expertise to streamline what could otherwise be a confusing process.

Step 4: Counteroffer Strategically

If none of the offers perfectly meet your needs, you can negotiate. Here are two common tactics:

  1. Counter the Best Offer: If one offer stands out but needs minor adjustments (like a higher price or quicker closing), work with your agent to craft a counteroffer.
  2. Request Best and Final Offers: When multiple offers are close in value, you can ask all buyers to submit their “best and final” offer. This approach ensures you see the maximum effort from each buyer.

Remember to tread carefully—being overly aggressive during negotiations could lead to buyers walking away.

Step 5: Decide if a Bidding War is Appropriate

A bidding war can drive up the final sale price of your home, but it’s not always the best option. Use this approach only when:

  • You’re in a seller’s market with high demand.
  • Your agent advises it as a viable strategy.
  • You’re prepared to handle buyers who may drop out due to dissatisfaction.

If you pursue a bidding war, maintain transparency and professionalism.

Step 6: Protect Yourself Legally

Once you’ve chosen an offer, make sure every detail is documented in writing. Work with your real estate agent or attorney to confirm that your contract protects your interests. Some essential tips include:

  • Avoid Verbal Agreements: Only written, signed agreements are legally binding.
  • Review Contingencies: Understand what could void the agreement and ensure they align with your needs.
  • Do a Final Walkthrough: Ensure all conditions are met before completing the sale.

Failing to dot your I’s and cross your T’s could result in unnecessary complications.

Final Tip: Don’t Rush

Receiving multiple offers can create a sense of urgency, but don’t rush into a decision. Take the time to evaluate each offer and weigh all considerations. It’s better to make a thoughtful choice than to regret a quick decision later.

Closing the Deal

Selling a home with multiple offers is an enviable position to be in, but it requires careful navigation. By understanding the market, evaluating offers holistically, and using the expertise of your real estate agent, you can confidently seal the deal on terms that work best for you.

If you’re ready to sell your home or need help managing offers, let me help! Mary Tarrant 928-277-6404

Selling March 10, 2025

Things to Consider When Downsizing Homes  

Downsizing can be an exciting opportunity to start fresh, simplify your lifestyle, and reduce maintenance and costs. But it also comes with challenges and decisions you must prepare for. Whether you’re retiring, aiming for a minimalist lifestyle, or just looking for a smaller, more manageable space, it’s essential to consider several factors before making the move.  

Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your downsizing process goes smoothly and helps you make the most of your new home.  

1. Assess Your Needs and Goals  

Before starting the downsizing process, take a step back and ask yourself why you’re downsizing. Your reasons might dictate several aspects of the move, such as location, budget, or the size of your new home.  

  • Are you looking to save money? A smaller home could reduce mortgage payments, utilities, and property taxes.  
  • Do you want less maintenance? Consider the upkeep requirements of your potential new space.  
  • Do you need a lifestyle change? You may want to live closer to family, in a walkable urban area, or in a community with amenities for retirees.  

Understanding your priorities will help guide your decisions.  

2. Decide What to Keep  

One of the biggest challenges when downsizing is deciding what to keep and what to leave behind. Start by decluttering and prioritizing the items that are most important to you.  

  • Start Early: Sorting through years of accumulated belongings can be emotional and time-consuming. Begin at least a few months before moving day.  
  • Divide Items: Put your belongings into four categories—keep, donate, sell, and discard. Keep only what you genuinely need and love.  
  • Focus on Functionality: If you’re moving to a smaller home, choose versatile items over those you rarely use. For example, a sleeper sofa might be better than a large sectional.  
  • Digitize Where Possible: Scan documents, photos, and other keepsakes to free up physical space while preserving memories.  

3. Consider Layout and Storage in Your New Home  

Smaller homes often come with limited storage options, so ensuring your new space will fit your needs without feeling cramped is essential.  

  • Measure Carefully: Before deciding what furniture or appliances to bring, measure your new home’s rooms and storage spaces. Pay attention to doorways and staircases, too!  
  • Utilize Smart Storage: Invest in multi-functional furniture, like ottomans with hidden storage or beds with built-in drawers, to maximize your space.  
  • Declutter Before You Move: To avoid clutter in your new home, try to get rid of excess items before you move rather than after.  

4. Evaluate the Financial Impact  

Downsizing doesn’t just affect your space—it has financial implications as well. Carefully assess your budget and understand how downsizing will affect your monthly expenses.  

  • Selling Your Home: How much profit will you make from selling your current home, and how does this compare to the cost of purchasing or renting a smaller one?  
  • Moving Costs: Factor in all the costs associated with moving, including packing supplies, transportation, and hiring movers.  
  • Hidden Costs: Don’t overlook hidden expenses, such as HOA fees in condo communities or necessary upgrades to your new home.  

A detailed financial plan can help avoid unexpected surprises.  

Final Thoughts  

Downsizing can be rewarding, offering an opportunity to create a more streamlined and focused lifestyle. By carefully considering your needs, planning thoroughly, and approaching the process with patience, you can make this step a positive and liberating experience.  

Feeling uncertain about where to start? A little guidance goes a long way! Whether you need help decluttering, finding the ideal new home, or making financial plans, don’t hesitate to give me a call. I would love to help. Mary Tarrant (928) 277-6404.

Explore Neighborhoods February 6, 2025

The Ultimate Checklist for a Successful Camping Trip

Heading into the great outdoors is an excellent way to unwind, connect with nature, and make unforgettable memories. But a successful camping trip doesn’t happen by accident—it’s all in the preparation. Packing the right essentials can make all the difference between a great adventure and a stressful, uncomfortable experience.  

Whether you are a first-time camper or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, this guide will ensure you’re fully prepared for your next trip.  

Understanding the Camping Destination

Before embarking on your camping trip, research your destination thoroughly. Knowing the terrain, weather conditions, and available amenities will help you pack appropriately and anticipate potential challenges. For instance, some campgrounds offer facilities like restrooms and water sources, while others may require you to be entirely self-sufficient.

Securing Reservations Early

Popular camping spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Secure your campsite reservation well in advance to guarantee your spot. This step not only ensures you have a place to stay but also allows you to select a site that meets your preferences (e.g., proximity to water, shade, etc.).

Top Things to Pack Camping

1. Cooking gear and food

Cooking up a delicious meal outdoors can be a highlight of your camping experience, but you need to pack your kitchen essentials. Some necessary items include a portable stove, fuel, pots, pans, utensils, and a cooler. Also, remember to pack enough food, snacks, and drinks to last the trip. TIP:  If you don’t have running water, fill a spray bottle with water and a squirt of dish soap to wash your dishes.

2. Lighting equipment

Once the sun goes down, you’ll need a reliable light source to help you navigate your campsite and avoid tripping over roots or rocks. Pack a lantern, headlamp, or flashlight, and bring extra batteries to keep your light sources up and running. TIP:

Charge a solar motion detector light during the day and place in front of your door; as you approach, the light will turn on.

3. First Aid Kit

Even if you’re not prone to accidents, a first aid kit is essential for emergencies. Your kit should include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, gauze, pain relievers, and prescription medications. Consider if it is allergy season and pack your allergy medicine, Aloe/After Sun if you are going to be in the sun, and muscle rub if you are going to be doing strenuous activities.

4. Maps and compass

While smartphones can provide GPS navigation, they are sometimes unreliable in remote locations. Before you hit the trails, grab a map and compass and learn how to use them.

5. Insect Repellent

Don’t let bugs ruin your camping trip. Insect repellent is a must to keep mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects at bay. Pack some anti-itch cream for any bites you may endure.

6. Portable Power Bank

Even if you’re camping to escape everyday life, you might still need to charge your phone or camera. Pack a portable power bank and ensure it is fully charged before leaving.

7. Entertainment options

While camping is all about enjoying nature, there will be times when you need to relax at your campsite. Pack books, games, a deck of cards, or a guitar to keep yourself entertained while you take a break.

Camping is all about enjoying the simplicity of nature, but preparation ensures you’ll enjoy it to the fullest. With this checklist, you’re ready to create unforgettable experiences surrounded by the great outdoors.  

If you would like more information on everything that Prescott offers, including real estate options, call me. I Love Prescott! 

Mary Tarrant

928-277-6404

Buying a Home January 7, 2025

You May Be Wrong About Down Payment Requirements

Are you in the market for a home but feel your dream is out of reach? The uncertainty may be because you feel like you need to have a substantial down payment saved up to qualify. Well, guess what – there’s good news! You may not need as much money as you initially thought. Conventional wisdom regarding the down payment necessary for buying a home may be wrong – and we can tell you exactly why!

Freddie Mac states, “The most damaging down payment myth—since it stops the homebuying process before it can start—is the belief that 20% is necessary.”

Generally speaking, you will need between 5% and 20% of the home’s purchase price for a down payment. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that the median down payment hasn’t been over 20% since 2005. Today, the median down payment is only 13%, with first-time homebuyers’ median down payment only 7%.

However, some programs can help you with as little as 3% down. For example, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers a 3.5% down payment program, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offer programs with 0% down.

What Does This Mean for You?

Larger down payments have their benefits, mainly providing lower mortgage rates and monthly payments. But if you can’t swing a 20% down payment, don’t worry! To understand your options, you need to do your homework. If you want to learn more about down payment assistance programs, information is available through sites like downpaymentresource.com.

Assistance Programs

According to downpaymentresource.com, thousands of financial assistance programs, like affordable mortgage options for first-time buyers. Down payment assistance options make up the majority of the many available programs. According to their information, 73% of the assistance available to homebuyers is there to help you with your down payment.

Tips to Save for Your Down Payment

There are some ways to help save that money for your down payment. Each month, pretend you already have a mortgage payment and have that amount deposited into savings. Once you have saved enough for your down payment, you can use that money as extra payments on your mortgage to help pay it off faster! Another tip is to get creative with your living situation. Move from a two-bedroom apartment to a one-bedroom, or consider a temporary roommate. Apply the additional income towards savings.

Saving for your down payment may seem daunting, but remember that you don’t have to go at it alone. Call me at 928-277-6404, and I can answer your questions and start your homebuying journey today!

 

Selling December 9, 2024

Why Overpricing Hurts Sellers in the Eend

Overpricing your home is a bad idea for several reasons.  Perhaps most importantly, it can lead to your home sitting on the market for an extended period without receiving any offers.  Waiting with no offers to buy can frustrate homeowners eager to sell.

In addition to leading to a longer sales process, overpricing your home can result in you selling for less than you could have if you had priced it more accurately from the start.  This is because buyers interested in your home will likely be put off by the high asking price and may choose to purchase a different property that better fits their budget.

Occasionally, sellers believe pricing your home on the high end is an acceptable risk.  Below are a few arguments sellers give to their rationale and why this line of thinking is problematic when selling a home.

  1. “I can always come down in price later if I have to.”

Yes, someone may find the house irresistible and pay the inflated price, but the odds are the home will languish on the market until the price comes down.  Buyers, though, will see this from a different perspective.  They’ll be thinking: What’s wrong with the property?  Maybe I can get this house for significantly below market value.

  1. “I must keep the price high for negotiating purposes.”

A house isn’t a used car.  Don’t start far above an acceptable price to pad out the negotiations.  Buyers will have access to the same market data, and their agents will have a pretty good idea of the home’s actual market value.  The ruse will quickly come to pieces, so why not select a price suitable for a quick, fair sale?

  1. “This is the price I need for my house.”

If there is indeed a price that a seller cannot go under, sellers should also be prepared to stay put when the house doesn’t sell.  Sadly, the market is indifferent to the seller’s situation, and other homes are typically available on the market.

  1. “A house like mine sold for this price… so why not mine?”

Sellers will assume houses are identical.  Typically, there are other outstanding reasons the home sold is above market value, especially regarding interior renovations.

It’s essential to be realistic when pricing your home, especially if you have an amount you must receive from the sale.  If you price your home too high, it will likely sit on the market for a long time without any buyers.  An extended time on the market can cause you to miss out on other opportunities, such as buying your dream home.  It’s essential to consult with a real estate agent to get an accurate estimate of your home’s value so you can price it appropriately.

We genuinely understand the emotions and factors involved in finding the correct selling price for your home.  We can help.  We have numerous tools and ways to analyze the market to help you arrive at an accurate listing price.  We feel that this is a price that will get the property sold quickly.  When you are ready to talk numbers, we will be happy to give you an accurate valuation for your home.  Give me a call 928-277-6404.

Buying a Home November 11, 2024

Finding the Right Real Estate Agent

The decision to buy a new home is a thrilling adventure filled with possibilities, but it can also be a complex process. Amidst market fluctuations, legalese, and the myriad of personal preferences that go into searching for the perfect abode, a trustworthy real estate agent can be your guiding star. But with so many agents, how do you find the one who will genuinely have your best interests at heart?

1. Is the agent’s top selling point the fact they offer a lower commission? If an agent is eager to buy your business by promising to work for less than the competition, be wary. Professionals are compensated for hard work, and a true pro won’t make commission cutting their go-to reason for representing you in the sale of your home.

2. Is the agent’s proposed listing price for your home way higher than everyone else? It can be sweet to hear, but sometimes sweet things are poisonous. In the business, this is called “buying a listing,” it usually works this way: An agent says your home is worth more than it is to get you to sign with them. Then, as the house languishes on the market, the agent will begin discussing price reductions. Instead of a quick sale for a fair price, you endure the heartache and expense of a home that takes longer to sell.

3. How is the agent marketing their current listings? Ask to see some listings for homes they are representing right now. Are the photos terrible? Does the advertising copy for the home sound generic and unhelpful? Have all the homes experienced price reductions? How do the homes compare to other listings online? Can you find the home online easily? The agent is suddenly going to be working harder on your listing. How they’re treating their current listings is how they’ll treat yours.

4. What comes up when you Google the agent’s nameYou may need to add “realtor” or “real estate” if it’s a common name. What comes up? Do they have a website? If nothing shows up, that’s a bad sign. Are they in the business or not? Can you find them on social media like Facebook? Have they updated profiles on Zillow / Trulia? If they’re a ghost online, beware. After all, that’s where buyers are starting conversations about buying!

Other Tips To Consider When Selecting an Agent:

Tip 1: Understand the Agent’s Role

A real estate agent’s role is more than showing you homes. They should act as your advisor, negotiator, community expert, and more.  

Tip 2: Local Expertise is Key

Location, location, location – it’s not just a cliché; it’s crucial. A good agent must intimately understand the neighborhoods you’re interested in. 

Tip 3: Licensing and Certifications Matter

Real estate laws and regulations can vary by state and are frequently modified. Proper licensing requires your agent to be up-to-date with current licensing and certifications. 

Tip 4: Look for Experience and Track Record

In a competitive market, experience is invaluable. An experienced agent can offer insights that a newcomer might be unable to access. Check their reviews for evidence of successful sales and satisfied clients.

Tip 5: Compatibility is Critical

Your real estate agent will be a close confidant during the home-buying process. Finding an agent with whom you feel comfortable is worth the time.

Tip 6: Technology Savvy Agents Save Time

Technological tools can significantly enhance the house-hunting process. Ask potential agents about their strategies for using online listings, social media, and digital tools to find the best homes.

By heeding these tips, you can significantly increase your chances of finding a real estate agent who meets and exceeds your expectations. Remember, the right agent can transform the daunting task of buying a home into an experience you’ll cherish for years.

I would love to help you buy your next home! Contact me at (928) 277-6404

Buying a Home October 1, 2024

House-Hunting Tips

Finding a house can feel like navigating a maze. The rapid changes and competitive nature of the real estate market can make house-hunting daunting. However, with the right strategies, you can simplify the process and find your dream home. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade, this guide is packed with practical tips and insights to help you succeed in your quest for the perfect house.

House Hunting Tactics

1. Know what you can afford. A price range usually narrows the field considerably. If you need help determining how much you can afford, ask an agent to help you work through that math. Getting pre-qualified with a mortgage company can also help you find the answer to this question.  

2. Know where you want to live. Understanding walk scores, commute times, and the school district’s quality can significantly impact your choice. The Prescott Quad Cities has numerous subdivisions, each with unique features and amenities.

3. Know what type of home you want. How much room do you need? What do you envision for your future? Do you love gardening, or would you rather never worry about a lawn? Do you work from home? Do you want a historic home? Is a new construction your dream? First, know what you can afford, then look at your desires and priorities.

4. Give yourself plenty of time at showings. Open drawers and cabinets, and walk around the yard area as well. You may want to see as many homes as possible in a single day or weekend, but feeling the crunch of the clock can keep you from thoroughly inspecting the house and getting a feel for the property. 

5. Sign up for property alerts. Homes always pop up on the market; you will want to know when they do. Sign up on our website for alerts when a home meeting your parameters becomes available. Enter your search criteria, and after viewing the results, select ‘Save Search’ and enter your contact information. This step may give you the competitive edge to secure your home.  

6. Tell friends and family what your search criteria are. One of the best times to find your home is before it’s on the market. Friends, family, work associates, and their network of friends may know someone thinking about selling just the sort of house you want. Ask around!

House-hunting can be challenging, but with these tips, you’re better equipped to find your dream home. Remember to stay patient, flexible, and informed throughout the process. Happy house-hunting!

Ready to start your house-hunting adventure? Connect with Mary Tarrant today for personalized support and guidance. Your dream home is just a few steps away.  

 

Mary Tarrant

928-277-6404

Uncategorized September 9, 2024

Helpful Tips to Declutter Your Home

How to Declutter Your Home

Preparing your home to sell requires presenting a house attractive to buyers. Decluttering is a must, especially if you’re going to be living in the home while it’s on the market and you’re choosing not to stage it. Decluttering will help you potentially sell your home faster and for a better price. It can feel overwhelming initially, but the decluttering process can be broken down into manageable steps.  

1. Take photos of what you’re up against. You might think things look pretty good until you see your home with the camera’s unflinching eye. Photograph every room from multiple angles, and you’ll begin to understand what buyers will see. Don’t forget to snap the closets, laundry rooms, and garage.

2. Plan a room-by-room attack. The preparation process doesn’t have to be done in a day, a weekend, or even a week. Depending on your timeline, tackle as much or as little as you can reasonably manage before burning out. If you attempt too much at once, you may make unfortunate compromises about what stays and what goes.

3. Use a checklist. When assessing a room, list what needs to be addressed and then the order in which it makes the most sense to do it. Visualizing the process will prevent you from wasting time. 

4. Be ruthless. Look at the clothes you haven’t worn in years, the piles and boxes in the garage you haven’t opened, and the shelves of unread or dispensable books. 

5. Stay motivated. Tell yourself: Less is more. Remind yourself: Every box that goes to Goodwill is a box you won’t have to lift, relocate, and unpack on moving day. The filtering process is an opportunity to refresh your life!

6. Pile it up. Sort things into “give away,” “throw away,” and “sell.” Some items can go to friends, and others can go to charity. 

High-Traffic Areas

Once decluttering is underway, here are some tips on what to focus on in the high-traffic areas of your home:

Front Yard: When you are preparing to sell, it is easy to forget your home’s outside curb appeal. If you have children, remember to organize and declutter the outdoor toys.

Entryway: The first impression of the inside of your home will be your entryway. Our entryway in my house is where we hang our coats and take off our shoes. If your entryway is the same way, go through your shoes and coats, and make space for potential buyers to hang their jackets when touring your home. 

Pictures: For potential buyers, declutter the artwork, photographs, and hanging hooks, especially in hallways. Fewer items will create a clean, crisp look. 

Kitchen, living room, bathrooms, and laundry room: I’ve categorized these rooms together because they all have a similar decluttering tip. The motto is ‘clean and clear.’ For the living room, remove magazines and excessive pillows and organize bookshelves. For the kitchen and bathroom, keep the countertops empty and clear. Lastly, all cleaning products for the laundry room should be put away to create a clean space. 

I hope this helps you with the decluttering process. Once you’re decluttered and ready to sell, contact me! (928) 277-6404

Buying a Home August 7, 2024

How to Woo Sellers with Personalized Offers

If you’re home hunting in a competitive market, you’ve probably had the heartbreaking experience of losing out on the perfect house. It can be incredibly frustrating to find out the seller rejected your offer in favor of another buyer. How can you do your best to ensure it doesn’t happen again?

When a seller entertains multiple offers, it’s essential to understand that many factors are in play. You tend to have an advantage if you’re an all-cash buyer, as cash removes potential financing roadblocks. But if you’re like most people, paying cash for a house isn’t an option. What do you do then to make your offer competitive?

First, ensure you have 100% of your financial house in order. When financially prepared, you have pre-qualification for a mortgage and proof of funds. Being organized and ready to go will give you a slight edge from the start. Also, be sure you work with an agent who is highly responsive to requests. Sellers don’t need to wait for agents to provide necessary information when multiple offers are landing in their inbox.

Beyond these factors, there’s another way to boost your offer’s profile: Personalize it.

While most sellers want to go with someone who will pay the most for their home, you should never discount the emotional dynamic of the home selling and buying experience. Though sellers are ready to move on, they often want to feel like their home is going to someone who genuinely appreciates it and needs it. 

Work with your agent to craft a personal letter explaining why you love the seller’s home. What features do you love? How will this home help you personally, professionally, or with your family’s needs? Include a photo of yourself and your family. Have pets and kids? Bring them into the picture! Putting a human face on the offer can transform your offer from one more name in a pile of numbers into a genuine person worthy of living in the seller’s home.

Tips to Keep in Mind While Writing Your Letter

Build a Connection: Look for a connection you and the seller share. This connection could be being in the same line of work or noticing a hunting sign. Build on that connection. 

Keep it Short: Don’t write a novel. Share your point, build a connection, and explain why you’re the best buyer.

Leave Out Remodeling Plans: If you plan on remodeling, be mindful of the seller’s protectiveness over their home. Even though they are selling their house, they still have emotional attachments to different areas of their home. They may not be fond of knowing that you want to destroy parts of it. 

Have your agent personally deliver the offer. Most offers will be electronically transferred and dumped into a crowded email inbox. While an electronic offer can be convenient, providing a beautifully prepared package with a personalized letter and picture can impact the seller.

I will go the extra mile to help you attain your dream home. Get in contact with me today:  Mary Tarrant (928) 277-6404

Buying a Home July 9, 2024

‘Needs’ vs. ‘Wants’ When Buying a Home

With the low inventory of homes in today’s housing market, finding a home that checks all the boxes can be challenging.

However, if you can separate the ‘needs’ from the ‘wants,’ you’ll have a higher chance of landing the home that fits your needs.  Chief Economist for realtor.com, Danielle Hale, states that:

“Focus on the goal you set out for yourself, like your list of must-haves and nice-to-haves and your budget. . . Stick to that. Be persistent.”

How to Begin

When searching for a home, the first step is to get pre-approved. You want to avoid falling in love with a home that is too far out of reach. Getting pre-approved helps you better understand your budget, which is vital when creating your list of must-haves and nice-to-haves.

After understanding your budget, begin listing the features of a home that you would like.

Here’s a great way to think about them before you begin:

Needs

  • ‘Needs’ are features that a home must have if it is to work for you and your lifestyle. Examples include the school district, distance from work, family and friends, and number of bedrooms/bathrooms.

Wants

  • Wants are features that would be great in a home but are manageable. Examples of nice-to-haves include a two-car garage, a fireplace, a finished basement, etc.

Dream State

  • Dream state features are things that you dream about. They may be unrealistic for your budget or the current housing market, but it’s fun to consider! If you find a home in your budget with all the ‘needs’ and most of the ‘wants,’ it’s a clear winner. Examples include a built-in pool, gourmet kitchen, etc.

After creating this list, it’s time to sit down with a real estate advisor. They will help you navigate the market and find homes that fit as many of your needs and wants as possible.

Crafting your home search checklist may seem small, but it can save time and money. It’s also one key to success in today’s competitive market. Let’s connect so we can work together to find a home that fits your wants and needs.

If you can keep your goal in mind and be persistent, you will find the perfect home for you and your family.

Let me help you find your perfect home!  Mary Tarrant (928) 277-6404