House hunting is emotional. There is so much to consider. However, if you approach it aware of the emotional element you can decide beforehand how you will know when you have found the perfect home.

Perfection?

Before you look at one website or schedule a single viewing, toss the word “perfection.” The reality is no house is going to be perfect. You will drive yourself crazy chasing perfection. Yes, you have your needs and some houses may fill those needs perfectly but even new houses have issues that, if overlooked, could be disastrous. By removing the rose-colored glasses you open yourself up to amazing possibilities. Instead of ticking off a list of wants, your focus should be on the bones and the soul of the house. Cosmetic issues are easy, and can be fun, to change but major structural integrity not so much.

It’s A Lot Like Love

Shopping for new home is a lot like falling in love. There’s puppy love and then there’s the real thing. Sometimes knowing the difference is difficult. When you find yourself instantly ohing and ahing, take a step back and ask yourself if this is great staging or your new home. Staging can act like Photoshop as it blurs imperfections. A great house just works with or without those gorgeous furnishings. Ask yourself: Does this house really fit us? If the answer is yes, that’s your keeper. But if you are standing there rationalizing or explaining away particular features it is probably of the fleeting case of puppy love.

Just Breathe

As you are walking through potential homes the butterflies flutter so fast that sometimes it’s hard to pay attention. Let yourself stop and take a moment. Imagine your favorite chair near the window. Does it work there? Do not be afraid to linger. Whether you’re with an agent or the homeowner, there is a tendency to rush through a showing. The deeper you get into the process the more the houses will start to blur together. Just breathe. Take your time. Some homebuyers find having a list and/ or taking specific notes helpful. Don’t be afraid to ask if you could take a picture or video. If the answer is no, that is probably a clear sign to exit.

Light Is Your Friend

One of the things most homebuyers are concerned with is light. It is an excellent consideration, however most homebuyers mean windows only. The right home makes you feel light. Again no house is going to be perfect but the house that makes you feel gloomy for any reason could be all wrong. If a house is giving you a dark vibe, even though it has the great walk-in closet and bubble tub you need to take a step back and at least a second or third look. Use your feelings of light and darkness to help you guide your decision.

As Good As It Gets

There is a fine line between settling out of desperation and realizing your dream home. This is probably one of the worst house hunting emotions. There is no magic formula to know which it is so let your individual experience be your guide. Also realize there is a difference between the nervousness of the commitment in general and the specifics of this particular home. Be nervous about the process but not about your choice.

Finding the home of your dreams is an emotional experience. However making the decision based solely on the emotion is the biggest home buying mistake you can make. Let your emotions guide you but do not let them overrule sound decision-making. If you are interested in becoming more familiar with Park City please call Jensen and Company at (435)901-8333 for information on local real estate.