Must vs. Lust

The process of buying a home is an exciting one, thinking about design and details of your new home is one of the things new home owners especially look forward to. However figuring out what you need vs. what you want in your new home is important. It’s easy to get caught up and go over your budget, below are a few tips to help you stay on track.

Make a List of Wants

Start with a list, make a list of everything you WANT in your home, if you love it write it down. Sort the list out by order of importance, what is your number one? You may want large windows or a sun room, a double vanity, etc. Finalize a top ten list and compare to your partners. Have your spouse or partner make their own list and then compare. Eliminate what you can not agree on and price out what you can’t live without. Check to see whats on both lists, those items should carry more importance because they’re wanted on both lists.

Highlight the Important Stuff

Next, look at your list and consider:

• What can’t be changed without a massive investment. Things like window sizes, the number of bedrooms and location should be put on your heavyweight list. These things should take priority when buying your home.

• Features that are purely cosmetic, especially things that you can do yourself. These items should be moved down to the bottom of the list or taken off entirely. Backsplash tile, paint color, and lighting can all be changed after living in your house, and won’t cost too much. Don’t want to pass up your potential dream house because you can’t see past old carpeted flooring.

Bring Your List with You While Looking at a Home

While you’re out looking at open houses, have your list handy. You may not want to give up on hardwood floors for a walk in closet, but you may be willing to compromise for extra square footage. Refer back to your list of must haves if you feel you’re getting distracted.

Here’s a quick checklist you can use when searching for a home. If your answer is “yes” to all of these, then a “want” may be worth breaking your budget, that is, if you’re able to afford it.

1. Is it on both of your and your partners lists?
2. Is it something that’s going to be extremely expensive and difficult to change or add?
3. Would you be willing to sacrifice something else to have it?
4. Would you feel like your house would be incomplete without it?

We hope you’ve found these tips helpful while looking for your new home! Remember when you move in you may want to start on some home renovation projects, creating a lot of household waste. Call us at Waste Solutions 123 for a residential dumpster rental, our project managers will help you choose the perfect size dumpster for all of your renovation waste!