Search Tips

Missing out on your dream home is the last thing you want. But even if you're not planning to purchase a home for another year, you can start the process now. Here are some tips to help you get started on your house hunting journey so that you're prepared when the right opportunity presents itself.

1. First and foremost, get pre-approved for a mortgage. While it's exciting to track down every house you find online, it can be disappointing if you don't know your budget or the type of financing you can qualify for. Being pre-approved gives you an idea of what a bank is willing to loan you, and it shows sellers that you're ready to commit. Keep in mind that just because a lender approves you for a certain amount doesn't mean you should spend that much on your house. See our guide on how to determine how much home you can afford.

2. Knowing where you want to live is also crucial. Your location determines which school your children attend, the length of your commute, how far you'll travel to a grocery store, and possibly where you'll socialize. Consider the type of neighborhood you want, the lifestyle you want, and amenities you desire. For instance, do you prefer a large gated community, a cozy area with tree-lined sidewalks for your daily jog, or grand acreage with no neighbors? Also, take into account architectural style, bike lanes, street lighting, and more.Once you have a rough idea of your preferred location and lifestyle, it's time to assess the must-haves of your dream home. Make a list of features that are absolute must-haves, like the number of bedrooms, yard size, number of stories, age, and general condition. Then, consider which features you'd love to have but can live without.

3. When you're finally ready to tour houses, it's essential to canvas the area. Driving around to spot "For sale by owner" signs is a fun way to spend a lazy Sunday, and it's possible that you'll find a home you haven't encountered online. You may find homes being sold directly by the owner or a bank (if the home is a foreclosure), instead of a real estate agency, which could mean less buyer competition and possibly a good price or easier negotiations.

4. Visiting open houses is another great way to align your online results with reality. Photos and virtual tours can't replace seeing a house in person. You'll get a good sense of the home's dynamics and layout, open doors, check out the garage, look under the sinks, and stand in the yard, soaking in the sights and sounds of the neighborhood. Other potential buyers could also ask questions that elicit important information from the owner or real estate agent, especially at open-houses.

5. Finally, explore pre-market home listings. Some houses haven't yet been put up for sale on the multiple listing service (MLS) and are considered pre-market. Finding a pre-market home could mean less buyer competition, and in some cases, you might get wind of someone readying a home for sale and can negotiate a sale before the home is officially listed.

Although there's a lot to consider before buying a home, starting early can be a game-changer. Try to allocate time each week for the process, set monthly or bi-weekly deadlines, and focus on planning. The more time you dedicate to planning, the easier it will be to recognize your dream home when you see it. Selecting your perfect home will require research, expert guidance and knowledge of the local market, and you'll need to consider what it is you're looking for. I can help you find the place that fits your taste, your budget, and your lifestyle. I'm a home hunter's best friend.