When looking for a place to call home, it’s easy to get sidetracked by thinking with your heart rather than your head. Although it takes less than seven seconds to make a first impression, a quick decision may lead to an unavoidable case of buyer’s remorse. In order to avoid this, here are our top 10 house hunting tips to keep in mind, before you attend a showing.

Location

There are many things that can be changed, upgraded, or improved after you have purchased a home, but the location isn’t one of them. You need to think about the proximity to work, schools, and other attractions you frequently visit and also research any new developments or upcoming changes to the area in the future.

Smells

While air fresheners and open windows can clear out certain scents, it’s important to pay attention in order to sniff out other potential issues. For example, if you notice a damp smell, it could mean the home has poor ventilation or issues with mold.

Even Floors

Noticing a slanted floor is one of the major hints that there could be a large structural issue with the home. If you do notice something, you can ask your Agent to inquire with the owners or make note of it for the home inspection if you decide to go that far in the purchase process.

Lighting

Natural lighting is something that is often overlooked in your house hunt, especially if you are viewing a home at night, or in the middle of winter. Think about how important natural lighting is to you, and plan your viewing times around when the lighting will be optimal.

Shape & Size of Rooms

It is important to take a good look at the layout to make sure not only you but also your furniture can fit comfortably in the space.

Parking

Is there enough space for everyone in your household to park or will this become an added expense? Additionally, if there is parking available, will your vehicle fit?

Laundry

If there is laundry in the home, you need to make sure it is in an accessible location. If there is no laundry, is it in a convenient location you can easily get to with or without a car?

Storage Space

Depending on how creative you can get with your storage, you will want to make sure that there is enough room to store your belongings without things becoming cluttered or unliveable.

It looks perfect, but are you missing something?

Professional staging can sometimes fool buyers into thinking a property is perfect while diverting their eyes away from potential issues. Don’t let the professional décor and scent of fresh baked cookies take your attention away from the things that matter.

Assess the kitchens and bathrooms

The kitchen and bathroom are two of the most costly rooms in a home. Make sure you pay special attention to these rooms to avoid getting stuck with unwanted repairs or updates after purchasing the home.

While a home inspection will help advise you of any potential issues, it is still a good idea to pay attention to these things in the initial stages of your home search. This will also help ensure you don’t waste money on unnecessary home inspections. Remember to keep a list of everything for each house you view so you don’t forget days, or weeks later!

While a home inspection will help advise you of any potential issues, it is still a good idea to pay attention to these things in the initial stages of your home search. This will also help ensure you don’t waste money on unnecessary home inspections. Remember to keep a list of everything for each house you view so you don’t forget days, or weeks later!

As we dive deeper into 2024, it’s clear that some real estate trends just won't go away. One of those trends? Bidding wars. If you thought we’d left the frenzy of multiple offers and escalating prices in 2021, think again. The current market continues to foster intense competition among buyers, and navigating these waters can be both daunting and exhilarating.

If you’re a prospective home buyer, you’ve likely heard the tales of chaos that bidding wars can bring. From skyrocketing prices to anxious waiting periods, it’s a wild ride. But fear not! With the right strategies and mindset, you can position yourself for success. Here’s what I’ve seen work best in these situations.

Be Fast on Your Feet

In the world of real estate, timing is everything. When you’re in a bidding war, being quick and decisive can make all the difference. This starts with being fully prepared—having your paperwork ready and a pre-approval letter in hand. This isn’t just a formality; it shows sellers you’re serious and capable of following through.

Moreover, clarity is key. Know your wants versus needs. Are you flexible on the number of bedrooms but firm on location? Understanding your priorities helps you act swiftly when the right house comes along. When you find that dream home, you need to be ready to pounce before someone else does.

Embrace Limited Information

In an ideal world, we’d have all the time we need to analyze every detail of a listing. Unfortunately, in a competitive market, there often isn’t time for that. You might find yourself in a situation where offers are due before you’ve had a chance to fully investigate the property.

This doesn’t mean you’re going in blind. You can still gather as much information as possible from the listing description, neighborhood insights, and even asking your real estate agent for their perspective. If your offer is accepted and you go under contract, remember: you’ll have the inspection period to conduct more thorough diligence. This is your opportunity to delve deeper and address any concerns that might arise.

Present Your Best Offer at the Onset

In a bidding war, hesitation can cost you. You may need to present your best offer right from the start without knowing what others are offering. This can feel risky, but it’s often necessary in order to stand out.

Many buyers find themselves in situations where they simply don’t have the luxury of amending an offer later. It’s crucial to evaluate the property’s value and market conditions to determine what a competitive offer looks like for you. Don’t hesitate to go for it—sometimes, taking that leap of faith can yield the best results.

Keep the Seller in Mind

Understanding the seller’s motivations can be a game-changer in a bidding war. What are they looking for in a buyer? Is it a quick closing, a higher earnest money deposit, or perhaps a leaseback option? We’ll do some digging to learn what’s important to the seller and tailor our offer accordingly.

When you align your offer with the seller’s priorities, you increase your chances of being selected. Even a slight adjustment—like offering a faster closing timeline or a more significant earnest money deposit—can make your offer stand out in a sea of bids.

Choose a Savvy Agent

Navigating a bidding war is no small feat, and having the right agent by your side can make all the difference. A savvy agent with experience in competitive markets will have insights and strategies to help you stand out. They can assist in crafting a compelling offer and provide you with market data to support your bid.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or have questions about how to approach the current housing market, don’t hesitate to reach out. DM us anytime! We’re here to guide you through the process, ensuring you’re well-equipped to navigate the exciting—and sometimes challenging—journey of home buying in 2024.

Bidding wars may not be the pleasant, breezy experience many hope for, but with the right approach, they can lead to successful outcomes. By being prepared, embracing the reality of limited information, presenting strong offers, keeping the seller's needs in mind, and choosing a knowledgeable agent, you can set yourself up for success in today’s competitive real estate market. Happy house hunting!