When you're on the hunt for a new home, the internet is typically the first place you'll go to see if a home fits your needs. While you can tell a lot from the photographs and information provided by a listing agent, nothing quite compares to walking into a house for the first time and seeing if it really has what you need in a home. 

For many buyers, it is easeir to spend a weekend house hunting rather than trying to schedule home showings around work schedules, hobbies, and kids activities. But that can mean spending a few hours in the car on the weekend viewing different properties. 

Here are some tips to make your weekend house hunting go more smoothly. 

1. Plan Ahead

We set every buyer up on a home search to find all properties on the market that match their needs. Depending on how broad or narrow those fields are set can determine how many new homes are sent to you daily. When planning a weekend of house hunting, take your time to review new listings as they come on the market & narrow down your must see homes. Prioritize properties based on location, price, size, and any "must-have" features. Then work with your agent to schedule showings as early as possible.

If you are looking in different neighborhoods or counties, you may want to plan for 2 days of showings so you aren't spending all day in the car. Talk to your agent about how to best organize your trip so you can maximize your time viewing properties instead of sitting in the car. 

2. Bring the Right Supplies

Showings are much more productive if you are prepared for what to expect. We recommend dressing comfortably for time spent in the car and touring properties. If you're searching for rural properties in Albemarle, Fluvanna, or Greene, make sure you dress appropriately for a walk around the property. 

Have a way to take notes on each home. Whether you bring a pad & paper to jot down your thoughts or keep a log in your notes app, it will help you remember the differences between each home you saw during the day. 

If you know you'll be out for several hours, bring water and snacks for the journey. You don't want to rush through and miss the perfect house because you got hangry!  

If you have kids coming with you, make sure you prepare them for what the day will be like and bring whatever they need to make the day go smoothly: snacks, drinks, books, tablets, etc. 

3. Look Beyond the House

When buying a home, you're not just buying a house, you're also finding a location that works for you. When possible, take some time to explore the neighborhood on the drive. Consider what grocery stores are nearby and what the commute will be like to work and schools. Think about what restaurants and coffee shops you like to visit and if your favorite hobbies are available in the area. 

4. Take Time to Debrief at the End of the Day

Once you have seen all of the houses, take some time to review what you saw on your own, with your co-buyer, and with your agent. Think about what houses you liked and why. Was there anything missing that you wanted? Are there any homes that you want to see again? Refer to the notes you've taken to make sure you don't miss anything. This is also a great time to evaluate your list of needs and wants. After you've seen a few homes, you may realize that having a wraparound porch isn't as important as having a private home office. Or that the neighborhood you've been dreaming of isn't quite in line with your commute. 

It's important to be honest with yourself, anyone who is buying the home with you, and your agent. Of course, there is going to be compromise during the process, but that doesn't mean you should buy a home that you're unhappy with just because everyone else seems excited by it. 

5. Stay Flexible and Decisive

In a competitive market, homes can go under contract quickly. So if you find one that checks your boxes and seems like the right fit, make it clear to your agent that you want this home, and start talking strategy. 

In an ideal situation, you'll have a pre-qualification letter from a local lender availble to include in your offer and will know what, if any, contingencies you will need to include. Having that information up front will help your agent write up an offer that puts your best foot forward to the sellers.  

Ultimately by having a good plan and being prepared, your weekend house-hunting efforts can be fun and productive. Take the time to review houses carefully before heading out, take good notes throughout the trip, and decide what works best for everyone who will be living in the house after your done. It may take time, but you will find something that fits your needs and makes you say "This is my new home." 

As always, if you have any questions about the process of buying a home or are just wondering why we recommend working with local lenders, give our team a call at 434.214.6121. Kelly, Rives, & John would be glad to chat with you about your real estate goals.