I have been getting this question a lot lately, so I thought I would throw out a list of questions for you to rattle around in your brain if you are just getting started.

These are questions that are good to toss around at the dinner table with all the family members involved in the move. 

What Neighborhoods do you want to consider?

Things to consider: schools, commute, parks, proximity to shops, pet friendly, parking.  Seattle is a treasure trove of differing neighborhood personalities.  Some will be drawn to the quiet and sleepy and some will be drawn to the up all night neighborhoods.

What type of home?

Single Family, Townhouse, Condo, Co-op, House Boat.  Consider Condo’s Co-ops and house boats all tend to come with dues.  So do some town houses.

Busy Street?

Most are closer to shops and bus lines but they do tend to be nosier.

How much work are you willing to do to the home after you move in?

Does it need to be in pristine condition, or are you willing to swing a hammer?  Most homes that need a facelift are cheaper, but don’t overshoot your budget or time.

How much space do we need?

Is your family growing?  Is someone going off to college in the next few years?  Might mom need to move in in the next few years?  How often does family visit?

Design? 

This one is harder to know before you go and preview a bunch of homes.  One style will start to tug at your hears strings though and others will repel you.

What can you realistically afford?

Start with your current monthly cost for housing and realistically estimate what you can swing for your total monthly payment.  Take that number to the bank and find out what it translates to for a mortgage.

How long do you plan on being in the home?

The average length of stay in a home is 7 years.  Less for first time home buyers.  Don’t get into a serious fixer is you are moving in three years. 

It isn’t an exhaustive list, but a great place to start.  Begin to narrow down your focus then give me a call and I’ll set up a day where we can go out and take a look at some of the homes that match your ideas. 

Talk to you soon,

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Rob Graham, Accredited Buyers Representative

Windermere Real Estate

206-321-6349

robgraham@windermere.com

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