The key to success in buying a home is similar to the key to success in anything: planning and organizing. The process will take you through the four steps that will help you remember the homes you've seen and help you choose the best one for you.
1. Map it out.
Step one in the planning process is to find a map of the area or town where you're looking. Mark the places that are important in your decision-making process -schools, parks, grocery stores, malls, or if you commute - where the train stations are or the best way to get to get to the interstate.
Then, as you visit each home, place a mark on the map, and see how it fits in with your overall plan of location, location, location.
2. Keep the listing sheets.
For each home you visit, the real estate consultant should give you a listing sheet. This contains vital information about each home -the address, list price, lot size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and extras.
3. Take notes.
As you walk through the house, take notes on the back of the listing sheet about memorable things. Make sure you note the date and time you visit. You may want to sketch out the floor plan while you're there.
You should also take your "wish list" with you and check off the items that are "must haves" and "nice to haves." This will help keep you from getting distracted by a great or horrible decorating job.
4. Take photos.
You're always welcome to take photos of the exterior, but make sure to ask before taking any inside - not everyone wants to "share" their personal lives with others. Taking pictures can go a long way to reminding you what a home looks like - and how it fits into the neighborhood. It also lets you look at it later, after your first impression, when you want to look more at the details.
Polaroid has a small reusable camera for about $15 that will provide you with a photo right then and there. Use adhesive backing to stick it right on the listing sheet.
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