3 Tips for Planning Your Home Search Like a ProStarting your home search is a milestone moment—exciting, full of possibility, and yes, sometimes overwhelming. Browsing listings, comparing floorplans, and scheduling viewings can feel like a full-time job, especially after a few months (or a bidding war or two). But with the right prep work, you can bring clarity and focus to your journey. To help you plan like a pro, our team at Empire Homes has put together three essential tips that will set you up for success.
1. Identify Your Motivation to Move
Whether you’re moving out for the first time, planning for a growing family, or simply craving more outdoor space, knowing why you’re moving is your starting point.
Understanding your motivation helps narrow down communities and properties much faster. Think about location, type of home, nearby schools, your ideal timeline, and which daily conveniences you want to stay close to. The more honest and specific you are with your goals, the more efficient your search will be.
2. Determine Your “Must-Haves” vs. “Nice-to-Haves”
Before you dive into listings, get clear on what really matters to you in a home. Start by listing all the features you’d like, then organize them into “must-have” and “nice-to-have” categories. This will help keep you focused on what’s most important, and make decision-making easier when you’re comparing homes or weighing trade-offs.
Is a two-car garage a convenience or a necessity? Are marble countertops a non-negotiable? What’s essential for your lifestyle might be different from someone else’s—and that’s okay.
3. Prepare to Document Each Floor Plan & Visit
Once your search is in full swing, homes can start to blur together—especially if you’re viewing multiple properties in a day. Come prepared with a notepad or use your phone to jot down quick notes after each visit, capturing what stood out, what you loved, and what didn’t quite fit.
And don’t stop at the front door. Take time to explore the surrounding community—drive through the neighbourhood, check out nearby amenities, and consider how the area fits your lifestyle and daily routine.
Start Your Home Search Today
Download and print the guide below to help you take the first step on your homebuying journey.
Now that you know how to focus your home search, it’s time to take the next step with a few key tips to prepare your finances when looking for a new home.