Using Shelter in Place to Create a Wish List for Your New House

With the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak, nearly all of us are stuck in our homes.  Many people have had to put major plans such as travel, weddings, moving, etc. on hold. However, this is a great time to plan out all the things you would like to do once the pandemic ends.

If you are in market for a new home or plan to look within the next few months, you should create a wish-list for all the must-have things you want and need along the things you can compromise on. While everyone will have different expectations and desires for their dream home, you can start narrowing your list with these tips:

What’s your budget?

Your budget will determine a lot budget will determine pretty much everything for obvious reasons. Assess how much money you can afford to spend on your new home and if you need to take out a loan. Try to predict how much money you’d ideally want to spend on your house, whether you have enough savings and plan out possible loan repayment schedules.

Having a clear idea of how much money you can spend is one of the best ways to filter out your options.

How long do you plan to live there?

When it comes to buying or renting properties, it can be hard to know how long you'll be there. Maybe you’ll live there for a few months, or it could be a long-term move. By keeping the length of your stay in mind, you’ll find it easier to decide on things that are not up for debate, and those that are. 

Are you willing to put in work and money on repairs?

This will help determine the price point and listings that are shown to you. How much can you afford when it comes to repairs, not only monetarily, but in terms of time and effort? Would it be easier to pay more for a finished unit? While there’s a lot of potential in fixer-uppers, there’s also a lot of work that homeowners don’t anticipate.

Additionally, think about the maintenance that comes with amenities like lawns, pools, basements, etc. and older houses that need frequent upkeep.

What about the area you’re in?

Do you need to be close to public schools, hospitals, and other institutions? Are you okay with a longer commute to and from work? Do you need access to public transport? Again, all important factors to consider before settling on the house. It might not be worth the $2000 saved to travel 2 hours each way! Find a neighborhood that's suited to your lifestyle.

What style and type are right for you?

Are you looking for a vintage 2-story home or a cozy single unit studio space?  Modern architecture or a classic red-brick style of home? Do you need a condo or a larger house with multiple rooms and bathrooms? Consider this factor with all the rest in mind while drafting your wish-list.

House hunting and moving are stressful. It's a major life decision and one that needs clarity before you jump into a deal of any sort. If you're looking to buy or rent luxury real estate in Napa, contact Jennifer Wilcox, one of the leading real estate agents in the region.