Chapter 8: Step 3 – The Search Process
Now that your finances are in order and your team is ready, it’s time to find your dream home.
This is the fun part – but it can also be overwhelming. Here’s how to search like a pro.
Step 1: Define Your Must-Haves
Before you look at a single home, write down what you actually need.
Your “Must-Have” List:
- Number of bedrooms
- Number of bathrooms
- Square footage
- Location (specific neighborhoods)
- School district
- Garage or parking
- Backyard
- Price range
Your “Nice-to-Have” List:
- Pool
- Open floor plan
- Fireplace
- Hardwood floors
- Updated kitchen
- Finished basement (yes, Texas has basements – they’re just rare!)
Pro Tip: Be realistic. No home is perfect. Decide what you can compromise on.
Step 2: How to Search for Homes
| Method | What It Is | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Online Portals | Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin | Getting a feel for the market |
| Your Agent | I’ll send you tailored listings | Accurate, up-to-date, off-market homes |
| Open Houses | Public showings on weekends | Getting a feel for neighborhoods |
| Private Showings | A private tour with your agent | Serious buyers ready to make an offer |
Pro Tip: Don’t rely only on Zillow – the data is often delayed. Your agent has access to the most accurate listings.
Step 3: What to Look for When Touring a Home
Use this checklist when you visit a property:
Outside:
- Foundation (any cracks?)
- Roof (any missing shingles?)
- Gutters and downspouts
- Landscaping and drainage
- Paint or siding condition
- Windows (any condensation or cracks?)
Inside:
- Walls (any cracks or water stains?)
- Floors (squeaks, unevenness?)
- Ceilings (water stains, cracks?)
- Doors (close properly?)
- Light switches and outlets
Kitchen:
- Appliances (work properly?)
- Cabinets and countertops (condition?)
- Plumbing (water pressure, leaks?)
Bathrooms:
- Water pressure and drainage
- Toilets (any leaks?)
- Ventilation (no mold?)
Mechanicals:
- HVAC (heating and cooling – age, condition?)
- Water heater (age, condition?)
- Electrical panel (capacity?)
- Plumbing (visible leaks?)
Step 4: Keep Track of Every Home You See
When you visit multiple homes, they start to blur together.
My Recommendation: Bring your Home Buying Checklist (download the PDF) and fill out a sheet for every property you see.
What to Write:
- Address
- Price
- Pros
- Cons
- Your score (1–10)
- Photos
Step 5: Narrow It Down
After visiting 5–10 homes, you’ll start to notice patterns. Talk to your agent about:
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| “What’s the seller’s situation?” | Could affect negotiation |
| “How long has it been on the market?” | Longer = more negotiation power |
| “Any issues from the inspection?” | Already known problems |
| “What are comparable homes selling for?” | Is it priced fairly? |
| “What’s the HOA?” | HOA fees vary widely |
Step 6: Ask the Right Questions
When you find a home you love, ask your agent:
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| “Why is the seller selling?” | Motivation affects negotiation |
| “How long has it been on the market?” | Longer listing = more leverage |
| “Are there any known issues?” | Foundation, roof, termites, etc. |
| “What are the HOA rules?” | Pets, parking, renting, etc. |
| “What’s the neighborhood like?” | Schools, safety, noise, future developments |