In life, patience is a virtue, but in homebuying, waiting too long for the perfect home isn’t wise. The pursuit of perfection can delay your dream of homeownership. As Bankrate explains:
“One of the most common first-time homebuyer mistakes is looking for a home that checks each of your boxes. Looking for perfection can narrow your choices and lead you to pass over good, suitable options for starter homes in the hopes that something better will come along.”
The Cost of Holding Out for Perfection
Nothing in life is ever perfect, and that’s true when searching for a home. Unless you’re building a brand-new home from scratch, some features or finishes won’t be to your exact preference. It could be as minor as paint colors, a light fixture, or the bathroom tile. Even if the home itself is great, the location might not be ideal.
Here’s the trade-off: spending too much time searching for perfection means overlooking many homes that could have worked for you. U.S. News explains:
“… you may miss opportunities if you enter the process with blinders on and aren’t open-minded. Countless potential buyers never buy because of this and thus miss great investments or never move on to the next chapter of their lives.”
It’s Time to Redefine Perfection
With current affordability and inventory challenges, buying a home that needs updates, is in a slightly different neighborhood, or lacks some desired features can be a smart move. These homes are usually more affordable, essential for buyers struggling to find options within their budget.
Additionally, these homes give you the chance to make the space your own or discover a new area of town. You may end up loving that neighborhood, and simple updates like new paint or flooring can transform a house into your dream home.
How an Agent Helps You Explore Your Options
If you’re open to a home that needs some work or is a bit further out, let your agent know. They can help you expand your pool of homes to choose from and guide you through the process by:
- Prioritizing Your Must-Haves: Your agent will revisit your wish list to separate non-negotiables from nice-to-haves, focusing on what’s most important to you and expanding your list of options.
- Coaching You to See the Potential: Your agent will help you look beyond cosmetic flaws and envision what the home could be with a little work. Simple updates can make a big difference.
- Connecting You with Local Pros: Your agent can connect you with local professionals who can handle updates, making the transition smoother and less stressful for you.
Bottom Line
There is no perfect home, but with expert help and an open mind, you can find the right home even in today’s market. Let’s connect to see what’s out there.
