Going out looking for houses can be exciting AND a bit overwhelming. Here are a few things you should take with you to make your house hunting trip more successful.
- A pen and notebook. Preferably the notebook would have pockets so you can add the listing sheets your agent may give you. Take the time at each home to make a few notes about the property. If your agent gives you print outs of the properties, make the notes directly on those sheets. For the homes you are interested in, make detailed notes about what you did and didn’t like about the home, sketch the floor plan, take note of the sizes of the rooms, etc. If you rule out a home, remember to make a note about why you didn’t want that home, such as “too close to the highway, power lines in the back yard, basement ceilings too low” and keep that sheet with your notes. I can’t tell you how many times people will see the house online and forget that they have seen it in person and why they ruled it out.
- A tape measure. Room sizes can be deceiving, especially in a vacant home. For some reason when a room is empty, it feels smaller. A quick measuring of the room(s) will let you know if your dining room table or king bed will fit.
- Flashlight. Not every home you look at will have power or light bulbs in all the fixtures. And even if they do, there are areas of the home that may be dimly lit such as the basement, garage, mechanical area, or attic. It is also handy for looking closely at foundation walls and crawl spaces (a bright flashlight will let you see much of the crawl space without having to crawl in — I for one, do not like hanging out in crawl spaces, but do want to see the condition under a home). Outbuildings such as sheds may have no power at all. NOTE: If you are house hunting with children, take along a couple of cheaper flashlights for them. I carry extra flashlights in my car and can’t tell you how often it will get younger children excited about looking at homes when they have their own flashlight.
- Camera. Taking photos/videos of a home that you are interested in is a great way to keep it fresh and share it with others in your family that may not have been able to join you on the house hunt. However, before taking any photos/videos please ask your agent for permission. If allowed to take photos/videos, remember they are for your private use only. Do not post them online.
- Baby wipes. Yes, baby wipes. Not every home is going to be immaculate. Enough said.
- Water and possibly a snack. Looking for a new home is exciting and fun, but it is also stressful. Keep your energy and spirits up by staying hydrated and snacking. This is especially important when house hunting with children. Please don’t eat or drink in the homes you are visiting though.
Above all, remember to bring your sense of humor and a cheerful attitude — relax and enjoy the hunt!