How to Shop for a Home

Tired of renting? Thinking about buying a home of your own? Make a list of must-haves before you begin to shop. This may include the number of bedrooms and baths, access to transportation or shopping, or the amount of road traffic you can tolerate, etc.

Also list elimination factors - anything that would eliminate an otherwise suitable home for your consideration. Carry both lists at all times when looking at homes and try to keep yourself focused on your basic requirements.

It also helps to keep a notebook of your home search. As you visit each house, jot down your first impressions, sketch the floor plan, write down comments of the agent. Then imagine a typical day with your routine of sleeping, cooking, eating, storing things and using possessions. Will there be enough storage space? Will things fit?

Source: McKinnon, S. (1995, June). UE Consumer Update.