Real Estate Romance: What to Do When it's "Love at First Sight" at an Open House or Showing

Buying a home is often the single largest purchase a consumer will make in his or her lifetime. The home buying process can be a stressful endeavor, but understanding what to look for, and partnering with an experienced real estate agent, can make for a painless and exciting process. Everyone has different criteria for what a dream home looks like. Some people know exactly what they’re looking for before entering the market; others don’t know until they pull up to the curb or walk in the front door. Of course, price is often the determining factor for whether the property will fit your lifestyle, but knowing what the other factors are before entering the market is important to feeling satisfied with your final decision. Here are some signs that a home on the market could be “the one”.

Feeling comfortable the moment you walk in the door.

First impressions count for more than you would think, and usually gut feelings are ones to be aware of. If walking into a home inspires you to explore and want to see more, it’s usually a good sign the property has sparked your interest. If you notice yourself visualizing furniture and thinking of ways to decorate; keep looking! These are all good signs. Never try to talk yourself into liking a property; home buying is not an everyday purchase, and you want to be sure.

You want to tell your friends about it

Just like with a new relationship, being eager to discuss a new house with your friends and family is a sign you may be hooked. If you aren’t as motivated to look at other homes on your list after seeing one in particular, go with that. If you start defending the property against potential flaws brought up by the agent or friends, close quickly because you don’t want it to be “the one that got away”.

It meets your needs beyond the walls

Buying a home is more than just purchasing a yard and the space between the walls. You’re buying into a community. Being happy with a property also means it will meet your long and short term needs -- if quiet is important, the house shouldn’t be located on a busy street; if you plan to have kids, the school system offers what you’re looking for; If you like to spend time outside, there are plenty of jogging paths, parks and beaches nearby; and the access to public transportation works with your lifestyle.

It fits your budget

While looking for a dream home is ideally about finding everything you want; finding a home within your budget is a must. Don’t fall in love with a house you can’t afford. A common mistake among first time home buyers is to overreach for a property that has everything, only to create a living situation that is unmanageable. Sometimes sacrifices need to be made and knowing what items you can live without will help you make the proper decision for you and your family.

While love at first sight is usually saved for fairy tales, finding the right home should spark definite positive emotions. Knowing which feelings to act on, and what the top priorities are will guarantee you’ll be happy with the purchase of your new home.