CHAPTER 12 What You Need vs. What Y s. What You Want If you decide to purchase a single-family home, townhouse, or condo—rather than rent or move into a retirement community—the next few chapters will guide you through finding the right home and negotiating wisely. Before you begin your search, it’s essential to clarify what you need versus what you want in your next home. This distinction becomes even more important as you plan for comfort, accessibility, and long-term livability. Creating a thoughtful, realistic list upfront will help you focus on homes that truly fit your lifestyle and prevent wasted time and unnecessary stress. From there, we’ll walk through how to search effectively, outline a clear step-by-step buying process, explain how to shop for a home loan, and show you how to negotiate from a position of strength.
NEEDS VS. WANTS
Start by understanding the difference between needs and wants when it comes to your next home. Picture your ideal home after downsizing. It won’t be the house you’re leaving behind, but it should support your current stage of life and future comfort. Whether it’s a smaller home or a condo, imagine a place that meets your essential needs—such as no stairs or a guest bedroom—along with a few personal wants, like a small yard for gardening. It’s rare to find a home that checks every box, in the right location, at the right price. That’s why separating needs from 86
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