A new year has begun! This is the time when a lot of people take a moment to reflect and set their goals for the next year. As you picture what you want your 2025 to look like, one thing that may pop into your mind is the vision of you in a new home. Has a photo of a new pair of keys been on your vision board for 2025? If you are ready to make those dreams a reality, then here’s your checklist for preparing to buy a home in 2025.
Focus on Your Why
To lay the foundation, you need to focus on your why. While the dollars and cents are important, so is the driving force behind your desire to move. Maybe you need more space for a growing family, want to sell so you can downsize, or are finally ready to buy your first home. Whatever your reason, it’s important to keep it front and center.
Your why is what helps you stay focused, both on what home to look for and what agent to work with. Share your motivation with your agent and they’ll use their expertise to help support that goal, no matter what the market looks like. With a great agent by your side, you’ll have someone to guide you, problem-solve, and keep you moving forward until you can check that goal off your to-do list.
Get Clear on What You Need
After articulating your why, it’s time to figure out what your next home needs to have. How many bedrooms do you need? If you don’t have a designated home office, is that a deal-breaker? What about a big fenced-in backyard? Knowing your must-haves and nice-to-haves makes the search a lot smoother.
Since affordability is still tight, it’s important to have a clear idea of your essential items upfront. Maybe you can flex a bit on location if it’s got everything else you’re looking for. Go over those essential items with your agent and they’ll help you focus on the homes that check the boxes that matter most while staying within your price range.
Know Your Numbers
Before you jump in, take a look at your finances. How much have you saved? What monthly payment feels comfortable? Getting clear on your budget early will help you know what’s possible. The best way to do this is by partnering with trusted real estate professionals, like a local agent and a lender. They’ll help you:
- Plan for your down payment and look into down payment assistance programs.
- Understand the equity you have in your current home and how you can use it to fuel your next move if you’re selling.
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage so you know what you can borrow.
Lean on a Pro To Guide You
It can be hard to know where to start, but you don’t have to do it alone. A real estate agent knows what you need to do to get ready to buy or sell, how to navigate the process, and can answer your questions every step of the way.
Remember, buying or selling is a big milestone and a great goal for this year. With the right expert on your team, you’ll feel confident and ready to take on the market. Are you a new homeowner? Looking to relocate to a new state? Searching for a multigenerational home? Reach out to an agent who is a specialist in the neighborhood you are looking for or well-versed in your situation.
Bottom Line
If buying or selling a home is part of your goals for 2025, now’s the time to get started. Focus on your why, know what you need, and connect with trusted pros to make it happen.
