Thinking about buying a house? Don’t know where to start? I know, the process of selecting and purchasing a home can be outright overwhelming.

“So, where do I start” you ask? Begin the home buying process by determining what it is that you want and what it is that you have to have in a house. I suggest that you create two separate lists, one for each aspect.

Now get busy and list all that you would love to have in your new home: five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a totally modern kitchen, a big yard with a swimming pool, a wood fireplace insert, a central gas heating system, the 3car garage to the side of the house, a house on 5 acres … or whatever it is that you really would like to have in your new place. The point here is that you dream big. This will help you to flush out those things that are truly important to you. It does not necessarily mean that you will get everything on that list (sorry!).

Now, the next list: things you MUST have in your new home, or you will NOT be happy. Simply create all the items that are necessary for you to justify purchasing or moving up to a new home. Be as specific here as you can – you know what it is that you want. Write it down on paper!

Sit with your lists for a few days or weeks. Update them as needed and see how your ideal home will take shape. You will be amazed how this process of actively and creatively asking for what you want will set you on the right path to home ownership.

Next step: go out and look for your home that you have designed on paper. Good house hunting!

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