Couples and Househunting

Brad and Angie were apparently seen housing hunting in the Washington DC area lately. If they’re like most couples, there were a few tense moments in the search. Corian or granite? Large backyard or a bigger kitchen? What will the inlaws think? What will Jen think?

It happens.

Here are a couple suggestions to help keep the relationship on track while shopping for a home.

Limit your choices.

It becomes a grueling marathon for some couples. We can do 42 houses today! It’s a sure way to frayed nerves. The human brain can’t process that much information and it will ultimately result in a nasty case of buyer’s remorse. “Remember the kitchen in the 156th house we looked at. Wish we had that kitchen”.

Accept the differences.

Personalities do affect the house hunting process. He may obsess over every little mechanical aspect of the house. She may be looking for a home with the right “feel’. The dynamics of your personalities are not going to change because you’re driving around looking at split levels. Accept that each of you brings a different insight into the home buying process and pool your strengths to find the best house possible.

Pre Approve for a mortgage.

It will force you to deal honestly with your financial situation and get you both on the same page as to what you are comfortable spending. People’s feelings about money vary greatly so try to find a comfort zone with your partner.

It makes no sense to find your dream home if one of you can’t sleep wondering if you can make the payments while the other dreams about putting in a pool next week.


Know your deal breakers and don’t sweat the small stuff.

Each of you has things that want in a house. Prioritize them and know what is important to each partner. Don’t let those go because you “fall in love” with a house. That feeling will fade and you’ll ultimately regret not having your “must haves” in a home.

Smaller issues such as colors, appliances, carpeting, floor covering can be easily changed. Floor plans, rooms sizes, exterior styles are obviously much more difficult.

Have a part of the home for yourself.

Being together as a couple is great, but when looking at a home visualize a space that can be just for you.

Have fun.

Or at least try to have fun. Yes buying or building a home involves a tremendous amount of stress. It becomes a second job for most people. See it as an adventure and you will not only have the home you want but a stronger relationship as well.

P.S Angie or Brad if you’re reading this, call me. I got a house in Dundee I know you’ll love.