To Have or Have Not? How homebuyers navigate the wants vs. needs.

The Homebuyer’s Checklist: Must-Have Features vs. Nice-to-Haves

Growing up in a single parent household, the MUST-Haves and NICE-to Haves were very well defined.  From school shopping to grocery shopping there was always a  NEED vs. Want pause before anything went in our cart. When shopping for a home, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of possibilities—an open-concept kitchen, a spacious backyard, or a luxurious master suite. However, finding your dream home requires balancing your needs and wants. That’s where the “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” checklist comes into play.

Creating a clear, prioritized list will help you stay focused, make informed decisions, and avoid buyer’s remorse. Here’s how to separate your essentials from your wishes and find a home that’s perfect for you.

Step 1: Define Your Must-Have Features

Your “must-haves” are the non-negotiables—features that are critical for your lifestyle, safety, and budget. These elements often align with your home size, daily needs, and long-term goals.

Examples of Must-Haves:

1. Location
   Proximity to work, schools, or public transportation might top your list. For many buyers, location is a dealbreaker since it directly affects quality of life.

2. Number of Bedrooms and Bathrooms
   Consider how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need now and in the future. Growing families or those planning to host guests often require extra space.

3. Price Range
   Stick to homes within your budget, including room for taxes, insurance, and other expenses. Nobody wants to be house poor.

4. Structural Integrity
   A solid foundation, functional HVAC system, and a roof in good condition are essential.

5. Safety Features
   Homes with updated wiring, secure locks, and located in safe neighborhoods are crucial for peace of mind.

Step 2: Dream Big with Nice-to-Haves

Your “nice-to-haves” are the features that would enhance your home but aren’t dealbreakers. These items often align with your lifestyle or personal tastes and may be worth compromising on if the essentials are met.

Examples of Nice-to-Haves:

1. A Big Backyard
   While outdoor space is desirable, consider whether you’ll actually use it enough to make it essential. Will the maintenance of a big yard be to much for your lifestyle?

2. Updated Kitchen or Bathrooms
   A modern kitchen is a bonus, but outdated features can often be renovated later.

3. Extra Space
   A home office, playroom, or finished basement is great but not always necessary, especially if your main needs are met.

4. Luxury Features
   Extras like a fireplace, walk-in closets, or hardwood floors are appealing but shouldn’t outweigh functionality.

5. Neighborhood Amenities
   Proximity to coffee shops, parks, or a trendy downtown area is a plus but may not be worth sacrificing other priorities.

Step 3: Consider Future Needs

When making your list, think about how your needs might change in the next 5–10 years. Are you planning to grow your family? Will you be working remotely more often? Choosing a home that can evolve with your lifestyle will save you time and money in the long run.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

To create your checklist, divide your priorities into two columns:

• Must-Haves: Include the non-negotiable features you can’t live without.

• Nice-to-Haves: List the features that would enhance your living experience but aren’t essential.

As you tour homes, use your checklist to stay grounded and assess each property objectively.

Final Thoughts

Your perfect home may not have everything on your wishlist, but with a well-thought-out checklist, you’ll be equipped to make a decision that fits your lifestyle and budget. Remember, must-haves are about functionality and practicality, while nice-to-haves are the icing on the cake.

Ready to start your home search? I’m here to help you find a home that checks all the right boxes. Contact me today, and let’s get started!