Prior to setting up a meeting with your real estate advisor, it’s important to clarify your budget, personal property preferences, and any anticipated life stage and lifestyle requirements that may impact the purchase of your home.

As a starting point for your consultation, we recommend completing the following questions. This will allow you to set clear expectations of what you are looking for, allowing your real estate advisor to service your needs and find you the home of your dreams.

The tips below are part of a series of blog posts that provide an overview of home buying essentials. If you would like to receive a comprehensive guide on buying a home, download our free Home Buyers’ Guide.

For additional advice on buying, investing or selling real estate, check out additional real estate tips on our blog.
 

BUDGET RANGE

• Target Budget ________________________
 
• Maximum Budget ________________________ 
 

PREFERRED PROPERTY TYPE

Condo/Apartment
 
Multiplex
 
Townhouse
 
Vacation Home
 
Single-Family Home

Other ______________ 
 

PROPERTY FEATURES NEED WANT

• How many bedrooms do you need? ________________________
 
• How many bathrooms do you need? ________________________
 
• Do you need space for a home office? ________________________

• What kind of parking facilities do you need? ________________________

• Do you require air conditioning? If so, what type? ________________________

• Do you require storage or hobby space? ________________________

• Do you require garden/outdoor space? ________________________

• Is a fireplace or swimming pool high on your list? ________________________

• Do you want special features to save energy, enhance indoor air quality, or to reduce environmental impact? _______________________ 
 

LIFESTYLE AND LIFE STAGE

Most people aim to find a home and neighbourhood that will meet their needs for the next five to 10 years. Your real estate advisor can help you assess how your lifestyle and life stage needs may impact the property or neighbourhood that is right for you.

• How long do you plan on staying in this home? ________________________

• Will you need a home that can accommodate different stages of life? ________________________

• Do you have children or plan to have children? ________________________

• Do you have teenagers who will be moving away soon? ________________________

• Do you have family members with special needs? ________________________

• Are you close to retirement? ________________________

• Do you have an older relative who might come to live with you? ________________________

 
Evaluate these considerations carefully and discuss with those who may be helping you make your home purchase decision. Once you’ve defined your goals, needs and budget, review them with your real estate agent so that they can match you to the homes that best meet your requirements.