bothered, but these are easy items to replace. Yes, it comes at a cost, but it’s not in the same ballpark as the home not having have enough bedrooms for your family or not having that yard or garage you wrote down on your list of needs. Another item to consider is the yard. For some people it’s a need, for others a want. Still more specific is the size of the yard (for some, it needs to be large; for others, size doesn’t matter); the functionality of the yard (how or where it’s useful); the aesthetics of the yard (how it’s laid out and its overall appeal); and whether it’s fenced in. Note: If the home you’re considering has the yard you need, but it’s not fenced in, make sure you have the permission/authority to have one put in down the road. Make sure there are no homeowners’ association rules or zoning restrictions that would prevent the fence you want. Because people perceive needs and wants differently, be absolutely clear in your mind when you will be willing to ignore — or compromise on — a want or stand firm on a need. Remember that wants can often be delayed to a more convenient or prosperous time. If you enter the house-hunting or home-search process knowing what you need as well as what you want, you’ll find you’ll have a much easier time eliminating properties that don’t fit your criteria. This in and of itself will save you so much time and energy. Do your research and write down your “Needs vs. Wants” list ahead of time. Preparation is key! Further, it’s important that you have realistic expectations when you begin your home search. For example, not every home you visit will be 100% “move-in ready” or look like a brand new or renovated home. Another trick to gain your advantage is to see the home’s potential. If you can do that, and
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