Are you buying the right house?

Anyone who has ever bought a home can easily remember the wonderful feeling of finding the right house and falling in love with it. It's an indescribable mixture of comfort, fear, excitement for dreams about to come true.

Can we afford it?

Will the sellers accept our offer?

How soon can we pick up the keys?

You definitely want to feel positively when deciding to purchase a home. But you shouldn't let your emotions get the best of you. What you really should be asking is whether the particular home really meets your needs.

Here are a few of the many rational questions you'll want to ask yourself before you rush into a commitment to buy.

Price
Your lender says you can afford to buy the home you adore, but are you comfortable with the monthly payments you'll be obligated to make? Is the down payment within your means?

If the house needs major repairs, remodeling or redecorating can you save the necessary funds within a reasonable time period?

Condition
Does the home need a new roof? Extensive upgrading of the electrical wiring? New plumbing? Is the home disaster-ready (e.g., bolted to the foundation in earthquake country)? A fixer-upper home with lots of potential can be a great find or a money pit. 

The ultimate question is whether the condition equals the amount you are about to pay.

Size and configuration
Is this house the right size? Do you feel like you are settling? Do you have enough space for your family? Do you think your family is going to grow any time soon? If so, these are definitely things you want to consider.

Is the design and architecture of the house too modern or too traditional for your preferences in furniture and home furnishings? Do you feel like this home fits your personality?

Make sure that you aren't setting yourself up, just because something looks appealing doesn't mean you need it.  Do you really want a swimming pool? Are you going to want to do what is necessary to keep it up?  Commercial-grade built-in kitchen appliances? Expensive hardwood floors? Some homes are easier to visit than they are to own. Is this house going to be a easy house to own for you and your family?

Buying a home can lead to many emotions, both positive and negative. The key is to not be too much of either. Being too negative will result in you not buying a house that could possibly be the best house for you. And being too positive can make you miss big warning signs. Hopefully with these tips you will be able to make a sound decision.