Your Guide from Granite Group Realty Services

Searching for your dream home is an exciting journey—but with so many options and decisions, it can also feel overwhelming. At Granite Group Realty Services, we’re here to guide you through every step and help you focus on what truly matters to you.

Use this helpful guide to prepare for your search, clarify your priorities, and move forward with confidence.

Before You Start Your Home Search

·         Check Your Credit Score: Most conventional loans require a minimum score of 620. FHA-backed loans may allow lower scores. Connect with a lender to understand what programs are available to you.

·         Choose a Mortgage Lender: Before you start house hunting, get connected with a reputable lender who can review your financial picture and help determine your purchasing power. Granite Group Realty Services can provide local lender recommendations.

·         Get Pre-Approved: A mortgage pre-approval shows sellers that you're serious and financially ready to make an offer. It also gives you clarity on your budget and monthly payments.

·         Find a REALTOR® You Trust: Since 2007, Granite Group Realty Services has earned a reputation for exceptional service, ethical guidance, and a commitment to helping buyers find the right home—not just any home.

Preparing to Work with Your REALTOR®

·         Know your budget and financing limits (based on pre-approval).

·         Be realistic about the current market and what your budget will allow.

·         Create two lists: Needs (non-negotiable features) and Wants (desirable but flexible features).

Dream Home Checklist: Wants vs. Needs

Use this checklist to help define your ideal property and communicate your goals clearly with your REALTOR®.

Things to consider in wants vs need

Style of home:

_ one-floor or □ more

_ contemporary

_ historic

_ log home

_ Victorian

_ lake house _ seasonal _ year-round

_ mountain cabin _ seasonal _ year-round

_ other

Location: 

_ city

_ suburb

_ rural

Is easy access to school(s) and services important _ Yes or  _ No

Lot Size:

_ are you looking for an acre, or _ more or _ less

Exterior

_ landscaped

_ yard for children's or pet's play area

_ fenced yard

_ space for garden

_ patio and/or deck

_ shed or workshop

_ front porch

_ screen porch

_ Paint _ stain or _ siding.

_ Color

_ Driveway _ paved or _ gravel

_ Other

Garage:

_ attached

_ detached

_ for how many vehicles

Basement:

_ finished

_ unfinished

_ walk-out

_ laundry room/area

Interior:

_ Hardwood floors

_ tile

_ carpet

_ countertops

_ number of bedrooms

_ number of bathrooms

_ adequate square footage

_ gourmet kitchen

_ appliances □ gas or □ electric

_ open concept

_ central air conditioning

_ fireplace

_ walk-in closet(s)

_ en-suite master bath, □ double sinks

_ formal dining room

_ family room

_ separate den/office

_ other

Amenities:

_ pool

_ hot tub

_ other