A GOOD CHECKLIST IS MORE THAN A LIST OF DETAILS AND PREFERENCES; HERE’S A USEFUL GUIDE FOR TORONTO HOUSE HUNTERS

I always say that the best way to get exactly what you want is to first know exactly what you’re looking for, and then to take an orderly approach looking for it. This is especially true when you’re looking for a new place to live, because your approach to looking for it will affect the options that come to you and the choice you finally make. Ensuring the best results means starting on the right foot, and to me, that means making a house hunting checklist that not only states your likes and must-haves, but also helps your agent know where they should start.

START WITH THE BIG PICTURE.

Even if the most important thing on your list is a large bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, I like to point out that that’s more of a detail than a first consideration in finding the home of your dreams.

If you think about it, the specifics always follow the bigger picture considerations, like what part of the city you want to live in, or what kinds of houses might you be willing to consider. I recommend starting your list with the mile-high items, then working down to the details. Other examples of these could include, closeness to schools, transportation and shopping, whether you prefer an urban or suburban feel, and anything that would absolutely kill your interest in a listed property.

GET TO THE DETAILS.

When I work with clients, I often learn a lot about them through their house hunting checklists. The most helpful lists include a balance of “gotta-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” These are important for me, because it helps me to better understand not just the specific things you want or don’t want, but also why some things are important to you. It is not at all unusual for people to fall completely in love with houses that in no way align with their house hunting lists, but that doesn’t mean they weren’t useful.

GET READY TO BEND.

One thing about house hunting that’s different from most other types of shopping is the weird truth that the exact thing you have in mind is not likely to actually exist, but the house you buy will be just what you were looking for.

The trick is to understand you house hunting list as a guideline and a tool, rather than a set of criteria that must be met no matter what.

Need help getting started with your house hunting adventure? I’d be happy to help you get your own checklist written and refined, and to get you out there to see what’s available to meet your expectations. Or, you might want to start by downloading my home buyers guide right here.