Would You Invest $2 Million After 2 Minutes?

House hunting can be fun, but it’s often a long and involved process.  Most buyers start online, sifting through the dozens, and in some cases hundreds of options trying to find a home that suits all their needs.  Does it meet their criteria: select schools, enough land, good construction—and all the latest bells and whistles?  Often what looks good on a listing sheet, or online appears much different during an open house or one-on-one showing. 

Since the purchase of a home is a major financial investment, taking the time to research the community, schools, and properties available is time worth taking.  Consider this: would you invest $2 million after 2 minutes? Allowing a professional to show you what the market offers, provide comparative references and share the pros and cons of the neighborhood can make all the difference.

The best way to find your dream home is to choose a broker with plenty of experience, and a strong track record of sales—especially in the town where you want to live.  He or she will help you evaluate other recent sales in your desired neighborhood, advise you on how to make enhancements to the house, and most importantly, be a valuable resource for contractors, architects, and tradesmen that can improve on your investment.  

A qualified real estate professional will help you simplify your search, present you with multiple options, and be sure you get out and physically visit each home.  Checking out listings on the internet is a good first step, but walking through a house can give you a much different perspective.  It allows your broker to key in on what your priorities are, and the pluses and minuses of each property that interests you.  Even if you don’t enjoy one showing the knowledge gathered there may lead to other properties you may have otherwise overlooked.  Brokers can supply vital information about the neighborhood, schools, and community activities that may aid in your decision.  Most of all, he or she can assist you in visualizing “what could be”—If your first tour through a prospective property doesn’t feel like home.

With a record low supply of houses for sale, it’s paramount to know the inventory, have your finances in order, and have an experienced and skillful Broker representing you.  Look for a Broker with top-notch negotiating skills.   What’s the point in investing time and energy in your new home search, if your Broker can’t close the deal on your dream home? 

Finally……be sure to maintain a positive mindset while house-hunting.  Your search can last a while so don’t be discouraged.  This purchase is likely your biggest long-term investment in your future, so use a critical eye and be certain the home you’re about to buy is the one for you.  A dedicated real estate professional will be beside you every step of the way, helping you find those hidden gems.  After all – his or her job is to educate you during the search process to assess a good value.  That way, when you get that true “gut feeling” – and you will—spending $2 million after 2 minutes might not sound like such a crazy idea.  In this vastly improved market, making that jump will be imperative if you don’t want to be left on the sidelines!

Amy Mizner is a principal at the real estate firm of Benoit Mizner Simon & Co. (BMS).  Mizner and her partner Sheryl Simon have been the top-selling team in Weston for more than a decade.  At BMS, which has offices in Weston and Wellesley, Mizner and her team work to provide a fresh approach, and a highly professional experience for all clients.