Spring is approaching and you are thinking about a move. But the ‘to do’ list is long and you are worried that finding a new home it is going to be too time consuming. You don’t have time to give up your Saturdays and drive round viewing lots of different options and the search seems overwhelming.
However, with the right time management and preparation you really can achieve a great deal in a small window. Here’s our guide how to make the most of your house hunting project.
Pre planning is essential. Know what you want.
Make a list of what you want – and why. With all home searches there will inevitably be a compromise, so knowing what you want and what you need at the outset is key. Chiltern Relocation recommends writing down a list of ‘must-have’s and ‘would like to have’. This will include, for example, number of bedrooms, bathrooms, reception rooms, if you want a garage, how big a garden would you like etc. Will you be working from home? Do you need a study or maybe two? Would a garden room be an option for a home office? Then draw up a list of your ‘would like to have’. This may include elements such as a south facing garden, an extra en-suite, a garden room, space for a treadmill, a carriage driveway, a dressing room etc.
With a clear idea at the outset, you will understand what is essential for your move when viewing properties and where compromises can be made. This will save a lot of time. At Chiltern Relocation our first job is to really understand the driving force behind our client’s move. Only when there is a full understanding as to what they want and what they need can we start to find their perfect home. Try answering these four questions to help focus your search.
Narrow down your search area before you start viewing
By setting out a radius of the areas you are keen to explore you can really start to research possible options. When looking at possible areas, consider the following:
- Would you prefer to be in a village or a town
- The proximity to major road links and the possibility of airplane noise
- How long are you prepared to commute
- Where are the local shops, restaurants and social amenities
- Do you need to be within a certain area for school catchment
- What options are there for secondary education and school transport
- Which roads are the sought-after and which ones should you avoid
Set up a Viewing Morning/Afternoon
Once you have a clear idea of the type of property you are looking for and the area that you prefer then line up three or four viewings. It is important to see a few houses in one visit to get a feel for what’s available and the right price point. It is also vital that estate agents see that you are committed to viewing properties in person.
When viewing properties have your ‘must have’ list to hand as a reference point. Another top tip is to not talk too much about the property during the viewing. Whilst we always encourage politeness, we are also very aware that many properties now have Alexa’s or other similar devices and are able to pick up on positive – or negative commentary!
Still need help in finding and securing your ideal home?
If you still need help and are keen to know how Chiltern Relocation is able to help and what makes us different to estate agents and search engines then read our blog: What does a Relocation Agent do differently to find the perfect home?
Or call us on: 01494 672086. Email: sharon@chilternrelocation.com or visit www.chilternrelocation.com
