It’s a good idea to work from outside-the-house factors to inside- the-house. For example, location is perhaps the primary concern and both “must have" factors and “want” factors that might be involved. A “need” would be “must be within 3 kilometers of work.” A want might be, “mountain view", while a "must have" might be “the NW quadrant of the city” (because work, family, friends, and recreation activities are all located there). Location needs often include access to frequently used recreation facilities, or mode of transportation (bus or C-Train access). Whether an item is a need, or a want it usually depends on circumstance. Closeness to family might be a need for a couple with young children or elderly parents to care for — or a want if those factors aren’t involved. It’s items like these that make a checklist most helpful. After location "must haves" and "wants" are compiled, housing factors can be considered. Must haves include having all essential house structures and systems in good working order. Accepting a house with the need for new shingles because the owner is willing to knock $2,000 off the listing price knowing it will cost $15,000 to replace the roof in two years — may not make sense however if the home does offer most of the must haves along with a few wants then paying for new shingles could be a smart decision. Must haves might include a minimum number of bedrooms and bathrooms, no stairs, fenced yard, perhaps a first-floor laundry room, and any feature the prospective buyers have decided they cannot accept a home without. Wants are features that make the home more attractive or enjoyable — an upgraded kitchen, walk- in closets, a killer master ensuite bath. Of course, one buyer’s want is another buyers must have. The point is to know your own wants and must haves so you can easily assess potential properties and make the process smoother.
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