When it comes to buying a home, one thing is certain—there is no such thing as a perfect house. Every property has its own strengths and weaknesses, and as a buyer, it’s up to you to determine what features are essential for your lifestyle. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, knowing what you want and need in a home is the first step toward making a smart purchase.
Creating a wish list for your dream home will help you stay focused and make the search process more efficient. Below, we’ll go over key factors to consider when determining the right home for you.
What Type of Home Interests You?
Before you start house hunting, it's important to decide what type of home best suits your needs. Each type of property has its own benefits and drawbacks, so consider your lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans when making your choice.
Single-Family Home: Ideal for buyers looking for more privacy, space, and control over their property. These homes typically come with a yard and offer more room for customization but may require more maintenance.
Townhouse: A great option for those who want a balance between a condo and a single-family home. Townhouses often have shared walls but offer more space than a condo and usually include small yards or patios.
Condominium (Condo): Perfect for buyers who prefer a low-maintenance lifestyle. Condos come with shared amenities such as pools, gyms, and security, but they also have homeowner association (HOA) fees and rules.
Duplex or Multi-Family Home: If you’re interested in an investment opportunity, a duplex or multi-family home allows you to live in one unit while renting out the others for additional income.
Are Schools a Factor?
If you have children or plan to in the future, school districts will likely play a major role in your decision-making process. Even if you don’t have kids, buying in a desirable school district can be a smart investment, as homes in these areas tend to have strong resale value.
Do You Need to Be Close to Public Transportation?
Your daily commute is another key factor to consider when choosing a home. If you rely on public transportation, look for properties near bus stops, subway stations, or commuter rail lines. Even if you drive to work, access to major highways and roads can make a big difference in your daily routine.
How Many Bedrooms and Bathrooms Do You Need?
When deciding on the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, think about your current needs as well as future plans. Consider:
How many people will be living in the home?
Do you need extra space for guests, a home office, or a workout room?
Do you prefer a primary bedroom with an en-suite bathroom?
Will your family be growing in the future?
Having an extra bedroom or bathroom can be a game-changer, but keep in mind that more rooms typically mean a higher purchase price and maintenance costs.
What Other Interior Features Are Important to You?
Beyond bedrooms and bathrooms, think about the layout and features that would make your daily life more comfortable. Some questions to ask yourself include:
Do you prefer an open-concept floor plan or separate rooms?
Is a dedicated family room or formal dining room important to you?
Do you work from home and need a dedicated home office?
Would you like a gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances and ample counter space?
Do you need a laundry room or prefer a laundry area within a unit?
What About Exterior Features?
The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior. Whether you love to entertain, garden, or simply enjoy being outdoors, consider the following:
Garage: Do you need a one-car or two-car garage? Would a carport or driveway suffice?
Yard Size: Do you want a large backyard for pets and children, or would a smaller, low-maintenance space be better?
Patio/Deck: Would you like an outdoor area for entertaining and relaxation?
Hot Tub or Pool: Are these features a must-have or just a nice addition?
View or Waterfront: Would you like a home with a scenic view, lake access, or beachfront property?
Are There Any Special Features You’re Looking For?
Every homebuyer has unique needs and desires. Consider any special features that would enhance your lifestyle, such as:
Smart home technology (security systems, smart thermostats, voice-controlled lighting, etc.)
Energy-efficient appliances and solar panels
Accessibility features like a single-level layout or wider doorways
A basement, attic, or ample storage space
A fireplace for cozy winters
High ceilings and large windows for natural light
Setting Priorities and Being Realistic
While it’s great to have a long wish list, it’s important to differentiate between needs and wants.
Needs are non-negotiables that you must have for your lifestyle (e.g., a certain number of bedrooms, a safe neighborhood, proximity to work or schools).
Wants are desirable features that would be nice to have but aren’t essential (e.g., a walk-in closet, a pool, a chef’s kitchen).
Making this distinction will help you stay focused when searching for homes, especially if you need to make compromises due to budget constraints or market availability.
How to Stay Updated on Available Homes
Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, it’s time to start searching. The real estate market moves quickly, so staying informed about new listings is crucial.
Create customized listing alerts that notify you when homes that match your criteria hit the market. This will give you a competitive edge and allow you to schedule showings before other buyers.
Final Thoughts: Finding a Place That Feels Like Home
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you'll ever make, and it’s important to choose a property that meets your needs while aligning with your long-term goals. By taking the time to define your must-haves and nice-to-haves, you’ll be in a better position to make a confident and informed decision.
Whether you’re just beginning your search or ready to start touring properties, At LCD Capital Escrow we’re here to guide you through the escrow process every step of the way. Let’s work together to find a place that truly feels like home.