Start with a comfortable monthly number.
Discuss financing with a lender and consider principal, interest, property taxes, insurance, and any HOA dues. Leave room for utilities, maintenance, and your other priorities.
Write down three must-haves.
Separate essential needs from preferences you could change later. Revisit the list after tours so an attractive finish doesn’t distract you from a layout or location that doesn’t work.
Compare the same things at every home.
- How does the layout serve your daily routine?
- What condition concerns need professional evaluation?
- Which improvements would you need immediately?
- What are the known recurring ownership costs?
- What restrictions or property documents should you review?
- Have you tested the commute at a relevant time of day?
Keep notes while the visit is fresh.
Record one strength, one concern, and one unanswered question for each home. Use consistent criteria rather than trying to remember which property felt best.
Bring your shortlist.
Send me the homes you’re considering. We can review the available information and decide what needs a closer look.