Similar to the list you develop to purchase groceries, why not develop your own list of needs and wants in your new home. This doesn’t mean you can’t have what you want in your home, but rather, that you have a priority list of the most important features.

Living in Chestermere will already come with a great list of included amenities. Quiet town living, 5 minute drive to everything, peace and serenity, and of course, lakefront living.  However, there are a few items on your wish list, or must list, that you might still have to sort out.

You may not be able to obtain all the “want” items on your list, within your budget, but at least you and your real estate agent will have a clearer idea of what to look for. You may have to compromise on a few items to stay in line with your budget.

Here’s a review of example needs versus wants:

NEEDS – could include:

Adequate square footage for comfortable living.
Sufficient bedrooms for your family
Sufficient bathrooms
Comfortable eat-in kitchen
Garage or basement for storage needs
Backyard for children’s play area
Easy access to schools

WANTS – could include:

Specific carpeting, paint, exterior color
Pool
Jacuzzi
Hardwood floors
Bay windows
Built-in entertainment center
Brass lighting fixtures
Skylights
A pretty view
Try to establish a happy medium of your NEEDS and WANTS. That is, you’ll want to look for a home that includes all of your needs, with as many wants as practical, while remaining within your budget. Once you have this information in hand, your needs will be clearly defined from your wants. Having this knowledge will establish a clear direction for your new home shopping.

If you already have a great home, but it needs a little touching up, click here for  tips on renovating your kitchen on a budget

Corinne Watson, CIR Realty
Chestermere Lake Real Estate Specialist
403 921 7653
www.corinnewatson.com