Virtual House Hunting: Your Guide to Finding a Home from Home
Virtual House Hunting: Your Guide to Finding a Home from Home
Good news (and we could all use some right about now)! Even if visiting sales centers isn’t feasible, you don’t have to pause your home search. Start exploring properties online today—right from your couch. By taking these steps now, you’ll be prepared to act quickly when the time is right. Here’s how to begin your digital house hunt.
1. Explore Neighborhoods Digitally
Whether you’ve narrowed down locations or are starting fresh, online tools can help you evaluate areas effectively:
Schools
- Platforms like GreatSchools provide ratings, test scores, and reviews. You can assess school progress, staff experience, and student demographics.
Crime
- Use crime-tracking websites to view recent incidents on a map. This helps gauge safety in potential neighborhoods.
Lifestyle
- Evaluate walkability and transit options with tools like Walk Score.
- Explore local dining and attractions using travel-focused platforms to get a feel for community vibes.
2. Define Your Home Wishlist
Before diving into listings, outline your priorities:
- How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?
- Do you prefer single-story or multi-level living?
- Is outdoor space or modern appliances essential?
Tip: Start with basic search criteria to avoid missing hidden gems. Overly specific filters (like fireplaces or walk-in showers) can limit options early on.
3. Evaluate Floor Plans & Finances
Virtual Home Tours
Many builders offer photo galleries and virtual tours of model homes. Study layouts to visualize how your family would use the space. Familiarize yourself with floor plan terminology to better understand dimensions and flow.
Financial Preparation
- Check your credit score: A higher score may qualify you for better mortgage rates, saving thousands over time.
- Set a budget: Determine your price range before falling in love with a listing.
- Research financing: Explore mortgage options and pre-approval processes early.
Ready to Start?
With these strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to search confidently online. When you’re ready to take the next step, you’ll have the insights needed to make informed decisions—no pants required!
