Are you ready to go house hunting?

It is normal to fear that you will make the wrong decision. This is normal to harbor fears about one of the most important decisions you will make in a lifetime.

We feel that this anxiety can be turned into a fun and rewarding experience.

Some preliminary things you should know about finding the right house:

1. Finding the right real estate agent. It should be the right fit.

A real estate agent will guide you through the looking process. They will point out things that add value to the house that you may not even think about. Things like does the house have crown molding?  Hardwoods over carpet?  Appliances? Are they stainless steel or other? The age of the appliances?  Do the bathrooms have drop-in showers? Are the floors tile or linoleum? They will look at the Sellers Disclosure and discuss the age of the roof and HVAC. This is very crucial information when putting in an offer.

The majority of buyers (roughly 86%) bought their home through a real estate agent or broker, according to a survey from the National Association of Realtors.

1. Most of us have experienced that gut feeling. Most people will instinctively know how they feel about a home the minute they enter. That warm and cozy feeling makes you feel at home.
2. If you think you may want to sleep on it — don’t. Trust your yourself. Don’t second guess your instincts. If you feel good about the home, your instincts will not steer you in the wrong direction. You’re not the only home buyer looking for a house to buy with your specific criteria. Put in an offer, and see if this is the price range you feel is meeting your financial means. Putting in an offer does not mean you are obligated to purchase the home. It only means that you will find out if you can come to a meeting of the minds in price. A due diligence period will give you time to have the inspection and determine if this is the home you would like to buy.

Every home is an extension of your personality. We always respect the different views of our clients. The furniture we select, color of the walls, the décor style all reflect you.  It is important when buying a home to overlook the paint colors and the seller’s décor. A little paint and decorating can do wonders and accommodate your family or a dwelling for your retirement.

When our client shows interest in a home, we like to sit down in the home and have our clients imagine them sitting in this home with their friends and family. Many times it is a helpful gesture, and I see them relax and take in the beauty of the home.  It helpd them make their decision.

Ask yourself these questions.

• Can you compromise. The home may not be meet all your expectations, but does it have POTENTIAL.
• Requirements are important.  Double check it against the list of needs.
• Is this the area that you want to live in. Check out the neighborhood.
• Does the community have a Home Owner’s Association.
• What amenities are offered if in a private community.
• Is it a good fit for you now and in the foreseeable future.

What we like to tell our clients — location, location, location is very important. No one knows what the future brings. Buying in a desirable location will make it easier to sell if life brings a change. We want you to know that if you feel the need to sell, remember if you liked it, then others will also like it. Life will always bring changes and taking the chance most often brings happiness.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Age only matters in cheese.

— Shirley SMITH RE/MAX Lake Country 706-453-6333