How do you know what you want in a home? How do you and your partner agree?
Here is a comprehensive list of things to consider when you are searching for your next home.
The Basics
What neighbourhood do you want to live in?
What price range would you consider?
Do you want an older home or a newer home?
What kind of houses would you be willing to see? (i.e. bungalow vs. multilevel)
What style house appeals to you most?
How much renovation would you be willing to do?
Do you have any physical needs that must be met, such as wheelchair access?
Do you have any animals that will require special facilities?
The Lot
- Large yard, small yard? Fenced?
- Parking, Garage
- Patio/deck
- Pool
- Other buildings (barn, shed, etc.)
- Special views
The Interior
How many bedrooms must you have? would you like to have?
How many bathrooms do you want?
How big would you like your house to be (square feet)?
What features do you want to have in your house?
- Air conditioning
- Hardwood floors
- Eat-in kitchen
- Separate dining room
- Formal living room
- Family room
- Great room
- Separate den or library
- Basement – finshed or unfinished, separate entrance?
- Separate laundry room – on which floor?
- Fireplace – gas or wood burning?
- Workshop
- No interior steps
- “In-law” apartment
- Spa in bathroom
- Lots of windows (light)
Community Features
Are schools a factor and, if so, what do you need to take into consideration (e.g., do you want a specific school system, want kids to be able to walk to school, etc.)?
Other Features
Golf courses or proximity to clubs
Basketball, tennis courts, pools
Proximity to waterfront
Proximity to downtown or maximum commute time to work
Proximity to transit
Are there any other special features or needs that you must consider when you’re
looking for a home?
