The day has come. You’re preapproved and ready to go house hunting! Best. Day. Ever. But before you hit the road, might we suggest a few things to bring along on the adventure?
Slip-on Shoes
Sounds crazy, but many sellers will request that you remove your shoes before parading through their homes. How easy are yours to get on and off? Some sellers will provide shoe cover “booties,” but if they don’t, you might consider bringing a pair of socks, too.
Snacks and Water (or Coffee!)
If you’re seeing more than three homes, throw some snacks in your car. Just trust me on this. You WILL get hungry and thirsty! It’s not okay to take something from the seller’s epic-looking beverage fridge, so come prepared. Just do us all a favor and leave it in the car.
Needs and Wants List
You don’t have to BRING this through every home, but keeping this list top-of-mind is hugely helpful as you rank each property you visit. Does it check the boxes?
Length of Vehicle and Important Furniture + a Measuring Tape
This sounds nuts, but trust me, if you love to park your car in your garage, you’ll want to ensure that it fits! Get the length of your vehicle and measure the garage space. The same goes for your grandmother’s antique hutch. Will it *actually* fit in the formal dining room you want? Are the ceilings in the basement tall enough for your weight rack?
Notepad and Pen
There will come a moment when the homes will all start to blend together. It’s so helpful to have a notepad to jot down significant notes about the house or neighborhood.
Someone with a Good Nose
Some scents are temporary, while others are permanent. Do you know the difference? A stinky trash can vs. a stinky basement—those are two different kinds of stink.
People with Opinions
If they’re going to give you their opinion, get it right away. This is especially important if their opinion counts. (HA!) Bring the fam. It’s a party. Just be sure to share this list with them . . . slide-on shoes, snacks in the car, needs and wants, etc.
Financials
If you find THE house, you’d better be ready to write. (Most agents these days won’t show a home without a preapproval letter in hand.) I’d suggest a checkbook and/or proof of earnest money, as well as a copy of your preapproval letter (which shouldn’t be more than two weeks old…)
A Watch
Your phone will work, too, but this is the VERY most important item on the list. Your Realtor has scheduled viewings within a window of time. This timeframe is honored by the seller, who might have had to haul two kids and five dogs out of the house with them. So, be respectful.
Tell me what was most helpful for YOU to have on hand while you were house hunting . . .
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