While the search for a dream home can become a little daunting at times, we're here to encourage you to do one thing: remain optimistic.
Sure, there's a lot to juggle and (often) a few concessions to make. Just remember that what you're about to embark upon isn't something everyone gets to do in their lifetime.
More specifically, if you're looking for a house in the sunshine state, then there's no need to look beyond a house for sale in Lakewood Ranch. We're talking waterfront views, easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, and world-class golf courses that will sweep all your cares away.
Below, we've outlined five essential steps that will help you hone in on "the one" and achieve your very own happily ever after.
Assess Your Housing Needs
You've probably heard this on some of your favorite HGTV shows. "Your needs are not the same as your wants." Although that's a real bubble-burster, it's also true.
So, make a list. And be honest with yourself because you'll want to split that list into needs and wants. Start with the needs. For example, if you have a large family, space for entertainment is a need for you, not a want.
Consider your current and your long-term needs, too. Over time, do you think you'll need a first-floor master bedroom to avoid the stairs?
Or, over time, do you think you'll need spare bedrooms and bathrooms to house all your little grandkids?
Only after you've satisfied all your needs should you move onto your wants like a jacuzzi bathtub, marble countertops, or tray ceilings.
Pinpoint Your Buying Power
Consider getting pre-approved for a loan since an approval will be required once you make an offer on a home. It also provides a little bit of assurance that you can "put your money where your mouth is." It's a win-win for everyone involved.
Once you've gone through the pre-approval process, you'll also know other important details like your credit score, down payment amounts, mortgage estimates, current interest rates, and more.
This will help you step into the joy that is home shopping feeling pretty confident that you'll be able to have your cake and eat it, too.
Decide On New or Pre-Owned
There's a long list of pros and cons when buying new or pre-owned. The pros to a new construction are ample and obvious. New homes in Lakewood Ranch, FL, for example, will be state of the art, never-lived-in, and sparkling with all the hope and wonder of something pristine.
You won't have to worry about replacing the roof anytime soon; the HVAC unit will be top-notch; the floors will be brand new. But, don't let the glitz and glamour of a new construction deter you from a home that was built a few years ago.
Pre-owned houses can be, on average, 20% cheaper than new homes, depending on the market and timing. And, sometimes, you run into some really wonderful updates, like a new lanai with a pool and spa, that the previous homeowners have already done for you.
So, if you have a specific area in mind, you may want to keep your options open and explore both kinds of homes. It will broaden your search base and allow you to meet your match.
"There is no perfect house"
It won't surprise you to be told that home buying is a lot like dating. You may not find someone who hits all the marks. But, you will eventually find someone who gets pretty close.
The same goes for home buying. Perhaps you'll find a home on the perfect homesite. If you're considering Lakewood Ranch, Florida, you're going to find that waterfront view you've always dreamed of. But, what if it has tile and you were hoping for engineered hardwood?
See past that flaw and look at the big picture. If the roof is new, the view is stellar, and the layout is perfect, then consider the fact that, over time, you can swap out that carpeting for hardwood.
Dream House for Sale in Lakewood Ranch
Did you know we have your dream house for sale in Lakewood Ranch, Florida? Indeed, we can accommodate your needs and your wants.
Here at the Daniel Bacon Group, our Realtors in both buying and selling homes in the Bradenton/Sarasota area. We also have the proven ability to determine what will make our clients' dreams come true.
Indeed, we have everything you've been looking for in our long list of Lakewood Ranch houses for sale. That includes the layout you need, the view you want, and the sunshine you dream about.
Look here for our new homes and luxury homes over $1M. We know we can find the jewel for your crown and we can't wait to take you for a tour.