In our first op-ed piece, “Taking the Oath,” we explored the concept of claiming responsibility for one’s own home search and taking an active role in the process, coupled with collaborating with Colorado REALTORs to produce the best result.  Today, we’ll discuss what seems like a no-brainer, but I think it bears repeating: You have to know what you want in a home and what’s important to you in order for you to find the one that’s right for you.

It seems simple, yes? But I’ve met scores of grown people who either don’t bother to take inventory of their own personalities, or lie to themselves about who they are and what makes them happy. Who lives with that mistake? The home buyer, of course.

Below are some questions to explore that will ultimately help you in your home search. Share the answers with the trusted agent assisting you in your quest.

• Do you like to pull up roots often, or can you stay awhile?
• What’s more important, making the most from your investment, or other factors, such as layout and look?
• Are you REALLY happiest remodeling/making improvements in a fixer-upper, or are you willing to spend more money and time finding a more “livable” home?
• Do you want the most home for your money, or the most location?
• Is the occupancy in your home rapidly growing or shrinking?
• Have you encountered a major life change recently, such as a death in the family, divorce, marriage, career change, or children?
• What’s your lifestyle REALLY like, and what makes you happy? (Note that this is different than asking what you think it should be, or what you’d like it to be someday.)

Weigh in with what you think are other important questions to consider. Comments are open!

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Homebuyer, Know Thy REALTOR
Taking the Oath: An Op-Ed Miniseries