When shopping for a new home, it’s important to know what you want. It’s also important to be realistic. If you can’t seem to find what you’re looking for, you might have unrealistic expectations.
Your Wish List Might Be Too Long
Knowing that you want a spacious kitchen with granite countertops or a large yard can help you and your real estate agent narrow down your options. If your list of priorities is too long, however, it might be difficult or impossible to find a house that fits all those criteria.
Break your wish list down into two categories: must-haves and things that would be nice to have. Focus on finding a home with features that you consider essential. If a house also has one or more features from your other list, consider that a bonus.
You Might Be Looking for a Perfect House
You might be disappointed by the houses you’re looking at because you expect them to be in pristine condition and filled with modern amenities. Real houses have wear and tear, and they often have outdated features. Many homes have design flaws that some individuals or families consider frustrating or impractical.
Even a house that’s in good overall condition will probably need some work. Consider buying a home that has most of the features you want and that just needs inexpensive upgrades, such as fresh paint or new carpet.
Focus on a home’s potential. If a house isn’t tailored to your exact needs, you might be able to remodel it and transform it into your dream home.
Your Expectations Might Not Fit Your Budget
Home prices rise and fall in response to demand. If your area is in a seller’s market, with more buyers than houses for sale, your options will be limited, and prices may be higher than you’d like. Houses can get snapped up fast, and buyers can engage in bidding wars.
Amenities and prices can vary widely from one location to another. If your expectations are based on your experience buying a house in a different city, you might be disappointed by the homes you’re seeing in your current location.
Talk to Your Agent
If you can’t find a house that fits your needs and budget, you might have to adjust your expectations. Real estate agents understand market trends and are familiar with local inventory. Your agent can help you approach the home-buying process with realistic expectations and find a house with the characteristics that are most important to you and a price you can afford.
