Buying a home is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make, especially as a first-time homebuyer or a growing family searching for more space. The process is exciting but can also feel overwhelming. With the housing market as competitive as it is today, creating a thoughtful new home wish list can help you stay focused and find a new home that suits your needs—not just your wants.
This guide will walk you through creating a clear, actionable wish list so you can confidently take the next steps toward finding your dream home.
Understanding Your Needs vs. Wants
The first step in building your list is distinguishing between needs and wants. Think of needs as non-negotiables, the essential features that align with your lifestyle. Wants, on the other hand, are desirable but not critical; they’re the cherry on top if your budget allows.
Examples of Needs:
- Number of bedrooms to accommodate your family or a future expansion.
- Location close to good schools, workplaces, or public transportation.
- Accessibility features like a single-story layout for ease of mobility.
- A home office for remote work or educational purposes.
- A garage to protect your vehicle or provide extra storage.
Examples of Wants:
- Swimming pool for leisurely weekend dips.
- Granite countertops for that upscale kitchen look.
- Walk-in closets for extra storage.
- Fireplace for cozy winter evenings.
- Open floor plan to encourage seamless flow between rooms.
How to Categorize Needs and Wants
- Brainstorm every feature you can think of for your future home. Don’t filter yourself at this stage.
- Divide your list into “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” Be honest about what’s essential versus what’s a bonus.
- If you’re buying with family or a partner, involve everyone in the conversation.
For example, an open floor plan may feel crucial to one family member, while another prioritizes a backyard for their dogs to roam.
Key Categories for Your Wish List
Your next step is to organize your wish list into key categories. Be sure to consider your current lifestyle along with your long-term needs, especially if you’re planning for a growing family or evolving circumstances.
Size
The size of your home impacts not only day-to-day comfort but also long-term functionality. Think about your current and future space requirements. These considerations may include:
- Square Footage: Determine a comfortable range for your family.
- Number of Bedrooms and Bathrooms: Assess your immediate requirements and potential future needs.
- Single-story vs. Multi-story: Think about ease of accessibility and long-term practicality.
If you’re a growing family, consider not just immediate requirements, but how your space needs may evolve (e.g., a nursery that one day becomes a child’s room).
Location
- Neighborhood Type: Would you prefer urban convenience, suburban peace, or rural tranquility?
- School district quality: If you have children, research nearby schools via tools like GreatSchools.
- Amenities: Proximity to grocery stores, parks, restaurants, or public transportation. These can significantly impact your quality of life.
- Commute time: How far are you willing to drive or take public transit for work? Consider your partner’s commute as well if applicable.
- Budget Constraints: Explore neighborhoods within your price range but assess whether you’re willing to make compromises for the right location.
Spend time driving around neighborhoods of interest to get a feel for the area. Look for features like nearby restaurants, walkability, and family-friendly spaces.
Interior Features
This category depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Key interior aspects to consider include:
- Kitchen Layout: Do you prefer an open concept or a more compartmentalized space? Consider modern appliances and counter space.
- Flooring: Do you like the warmth of hardwood, the comfort of carpet, or the durability of tile?
- Bonus Features: Specialized spaces like a home office, formal dining room, or a playroom can be a game-changer.
Exterior Features
Don’t overlook the value of a home’s exterior. Think about:
- Yard Size: Decide whether you want a spacious backyard or minimal landscaping upkeep.
- Outdoor Living Spaces: Would you enjoy a deck, patio, or pool for entertaining?
- Garage and Additional Structures: Think about parking needs and extra storage space for tools or hobbies.
Systems and Accessibility
Functionality is key. Ensure you evaluate the following systems and features:
- HVAC systems like central air and heating
- Accessibility features for multigenerational households or aging family members
- Solar panels, energy-efficient windows, or other cost-saving upgrades
- Smart home technology for security and convenience.
By breaking down your wish list into these categories, you’ll ensure you leave no stone unturned during your home search.
Prioritizing Your Wish List
Once you’ve categorized your list, it’s time to prioritize. Not every home will check all the boxes, so rank the features that matter most.
- Within Each Category: Identify the top one or two items that are non-negotiable.
- Budget Impact: Acknowledge which wants you’re willing to compromise on based on financial constraints.
- Future-proofing: Think long-term and prioritize features that will remain practical as your family’s circumstances change.
- Be Flexible: While it’s good to know what you want, flexibility can prevent you from passing up a home that meets most of your criteria.
Be prepared to update your wish list as you tour homes. You might realize some wants are less critical once you start viewing properties.
Budget Considerations
Your budget is a major factor in shaping your wish list, so it’s important to have a clear understanding of your financial limits.
- General Guidelines: Most households can afford a home priced up to three times their combined annual income, but this varies depending on factors like debt and savings.
- Pre-qualification: Get pre-qualified for a mortgage to determine how much you can afford. This step also signals your seriousness to sellers.
- Additional Costs: Don’t forget to factor in expenses like down payments, moving costs, property taxes, and homeowner’s insurance.
Don’t feel pressured to borrow the maximum amount you qualify for. Instead, focus on what comfortably fits within your household’s financial picture.
Budgeting early also helps you itemize whether you can afford certain “wants,” such as outdoor upgrades or energy-efficient appliances.
Take the First Step Toward Your Dream Home
Creating a home wish list is more than just a fun exercise; it’s a powerful tool for making confident decisions in a competitive housing market. By focusing on your needs, prioritizing your wants, and staying within budget, you can find a home that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle.
At S&A Homes, we’re dedicated to helping first-time homebuyers and growing families find the perfect space to call their own. We build new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Learn more about our quick move-in homes and build on your land opportunities, by calling call 1-855-SAHome1 or visiting us online at SAHomeBuilder.com.