Buying a home is one of your most important steps in life. It’s important to understand 1) what your needs are versus what you want, 2) if you are searching for your first home or your forever home. This article will assist with determining what you want in your home purchase.

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1. Is this your first home or your forever home?

Understanding that your first home isn’t necessarily your forever home is the first step to figuring out what you want out of your new home. You may decide to buy the home that offers rental or resale possibilities because you know it’s only a first home purchase and that bigger homes are in your future. Or, you may be dreaming of your forever home that you will grow into as your family grows and changes. Often, new construction or a fixer upper may be the best fit to getting everything you want.

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2. What do I want in a home and what do I need in a home?

Don’t confuse what you want with what you need. Take the time to list everything you need in a home; these are your must-haves and deal breakers. Then, list what you want; typically these can be in two categories, the gotta have and the nice to have. These are things you can live without, add on at a future date, or substitute with other features.

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3. Do I want a fixer-upper or a home that is move-in ready?

Understanding your limitations can save you heartache. Ideally, do you want a move-in ready home. Or do you want something that requires a little tender loving care to make it more like a custom home. It’s important to have an idea of what you want upfront, as your lending product may have to be altered if you want that diamond-in-the-rough. Ask your lender and real estate agent about renovation loans that allow you to purchase and fix your new home.