Congratulations! You're finally ready to take that long-awaited step and invest in your dream home. Unless you already have a certain house in mind, however, the process can be somewhat daunting at first. Here are several important factors to consider when shopping for the perfect home.

Location

First and foremost, think about where you'd like to put down stakes for the next several years. If you're planning on buying a house based on a new job or other changing circumstances, your work is half done. Buyers who have more options, meanwhile, would do well to consider broader issues. Examples include your preferred climate, city life versus country life, and whether you're likely to get a decent return on your investment. Also, think about your stage of life and personal preferences. Are you just starting your family, or do you have children who are nearly grown? Do you enjoy dining out or socializing at the local watering holes after work? Your answers should help you narrow down the list still further.

Think Long-Term

This is your dream house, not a stepping stone. You're planning to live here for a long time, so now is the time to sketch out a long-term plan for the future. If you have no children yet but plan on having several, look for a place with enough bedrooms to accommodate them all. In this case, it's better to have too much space than too little. You can always repurpose one or more of the extra rooms if needed.

Make a List of Must-Haves

Everyone has a different set of criteria for their ideal home. Chances are, you've already thought long and hard about yours. Some people might fantasize about having a private study with a wood-burning fireplace. Others would be happy with a bathroom that includes a jetted tub. Enthusiastic home chefs should look for kitchens with plenty of prep space and perhaps a double oven. Which qualities and features are you looking for, and which would you be willing to forego?

Architectural Style

Once you've determined where you'd like to live, take a look at the area's regional architecture. Does it fit in with the image you have of your dream house? There are many different styles to choose from. If you know which ones you prefer, it will be easier for your realtor to help you find the home that aligns with your vision. Buyers who feel strongly about this should consider building a house instead of buying. If you custom build your home, you have the option to choose from several custom home styles or create something that is uniquely you.

Your Budget

Cost is always a factor when making an investment, particularly one as major as this. Although it's important to choose a home that suits your needs, it's just as vital to make a prudent selection that fits your budget. Before you make an offer, don't forget to factor in secondary concerns such as the home inspection, land surveying, home insurance, and closing costs. You might also need to enlist the aid of a moving company. Research the average costs of these services and take them into account as you draft your budget.

Finding the Right Realtor

Rule number one for house-hunters: don't just sign with the first real estate agent who crosses your path. This is a business relationship, and one that will have a major impact on your economic future. As such, the decision should be made with the utmost care and concern. First, determine whether the individual is a licensed realtor or simply a real estate agent. Realtors have to adhere to a specific code of ethics, which could eliminate a lot of headaches later on. Even if you decide to sign with a regular agent, don't be afraid to ask plenty of questions about their reputation and experience level.

Beware of Expensive Add-Ons

Features like wall ovens and built-in saunas have fantastic eye appeal, and you'll probably appreciate them—as long as they're working. These options are often pricey to install, which usually translates into costly repairs. Think about whether you'll be willing to take on the additional maintenance costs on items like this before making an offer. This is where your must-have list will come in handy. If a home includes numerous add-ons that you probably won't use, the house might not be the right fit for you.

Function Over Form

Suppose that one of the items on your must-have list is a laundry room, and you've found a house that has a spacious and well-appointed one, with new appliances. That checks off all the boxes, right? Not necessarily. The presence of a certain feature isn't always enough; the devil is in the details. Is the laundry room in a convenient location? Are the appliances either too big or too small to suit your family's needs? Can the noise from the washer and dryer be heard from the bedrooms? Consider what you'll be using certain rooms for, and when you'll be using them. The layout is just as important as quality in these cases.

Cleaning and Routine Maintenance

A sprawling home with an impressive amount of square footage and acres of land might sound good in theory. But can you afford it? Unless you also have the means to hire a full-time staff you might find yourself spending more time cleaning and maintaining the property than enjoying it. While you should certainly look for a home where you and your family can live in comfort, think about whether you really need both a study and a library, or if you could live with two bathrooms instead of five. Remember, more floor space translates into more scrubbing and/or vacuuming, and a larger yard takes longer to mow.

Buying a house is an exciting prospect and one that shouldn't be taken lightly. If you know in advance what you're looking for and are prepared to ask informed and intelligent questions, the process itself can be as smooth as a dream.

If you need help finding your dream house in Iowa, don’t hesitate to contact me!

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