Determine Your Wants and Needs

Grab a piece of paper and divide it into three columns. If you'll have a co-owner, have that person make a list too, but don't share ideas just yet.

Column 1, List Must-Have Features

  • If the house must be located in a specific neighborhood or school district.
  • If the house must have 3 bedrooms, a 2 car garage, a large kitchen, a view.
  • If there must be no restrictions against a home-based business.
  • If the home must be one level, with few or no steps.
  • List every feature you feel is a must.

Column 2, List Features You Would Like:

  • A basement or a deck.
  • Whirlpool tubs, walk-in closets.
  • A certain type of architecture.
  • Gas heat.
  • Central air conditioning.
  • List all features that are important to you--but that you might be flexible about.

Column 3, List Features You Do NOT Want:

  • A home located next to a highway or in a congested area.
  • Certain types of architecture.
  • Homes that need a great deal of work.
  • List all features you absolutely cannot accept.