Sarah Richardson’s 10 Tips for Finding and Buying Your Dream Home

Here are 10 practical tips for finding and buying your dream home:

1. Do your research by scouring newspapers and real estate websites. Make a move only with a certified real estate agent-their knowledge and guidance are crucial to a successful buy.

1. Narrow your house search by focusing on the features and location you want.  Being honest with yourself helps you to spend money and time wisely. 

1. Look for the cheapest house in the best neighbourhood. If you renovate it properly, a return on your investment is guaranteed.

1. Don’t shy away from a house that’s been cut up into apartments. Converting it back to a single dwelling is easier than you think.

1. Prepare for a trade-off. There is no such thing as a perfect home. Prioritize sacrifices and deal breakers.

1. Beware of cosmetic upgrades. If renovating you’ll pay twice: to buy it and to replace it.

1. Location is everything. You can change almost everything about a house except where it’s located.

1. Parking is a must-have. Think of it as part of your investment.

1. Keep perspective. If a deal falls through another one will come along in the not too distant future.

1. A sense of humour helps. The laughs are there if you look hard enough!