wants, and location, don’t forget to add home design to the list. I’m not talking about interior design or décor, which are all things that can be modified, upgraded, or even completely renovated in time. Rather, I’m talking about the type of home — such as a condo, a townhouse, a bungalow, a two-story home, etc., as well as big-ticket items like a garage, yard, basement (finished or unfinished), dining room, staircases, where the bathrooms are located in relation to the bedrooms, etc. In other words, how was the home architecturally designed? Design matters! You need to determine the right type of home design that meets your needs and those of your family, if applicable.
Step 6: Hire an Agent
This step has been mentioned many times throughout this book, but it bears repeating. Sure, there are success stories of buyers who’ve managed to find a good home at a good price without the services of a professional real estate agent, but these cases are usually the exception rather than the rule. FSBO (For Sale By Owner) situations can work out to your benefit, but it’s highly recommended to avoid the potential risks and pitfalls and hire an agent. Sure, there’s a commission fee involved, but you’ll save yourself a lot of stress, time, and energy with an agent. Plus, there’s a good chance your agent will be able to find you an even better home than you were hoping for, at an even better deal, essentially negating the commission fee. Real estate agents know the ins and outs of the housing market and can help you find a home that you would never have found on your own. They can also advise against certain properties that don’t meet your criteria or fail certain home inspections, negotiate on your behalf, and help with the sometimes- complicated closing process. Note: Don’t just hire the first buyer’s agent whose advertisement you see online or on a bench, or the
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