Typically, it takes at least four weeks to six months (or more) to find a new home and close the transaction. That’s a lot of time spent searching, visiting open houses, and potentially making offers —all while trying to maintain some level of sanity. Here are five tips for coping with the sometimes stressful and often lengthy process of house hunting:
1. Prepare for the Long Haul
When you start the homeownership journey, it’s important to mentally prepare for the fact that house hunting may take some time. Set a realistic timeframe and budget for yourself, and try to stay focused on the end goal of finding your dream home. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint!
2. Acknowledge Your Feelings
It’s natural to experience a range of emotions during house hunting – from excitement to frustration. Allow yourself to feel and express these emotions, but try not to let them consume you. Take breaks as needed, and find healthy outlets for managing stress (such as exercise or talking to friends).
3. Note Down the Positives and Drawbacks
When looking at a potential new home, make sure to jot down the positives as well as any drawbacks. This will help keep things in perspective and remind you of all the good aspects during times of frustration or doubt. Our brains often choose to focus on the things that are going wrong, but you need to make a deliberate effort to acknowledge the positives more than the negatives – unless, of course, a particular drawback is a deal breaker for you.
4. Reward Yourself
During this time, treat yourself and celebrate the small wins. This could be as simple as getting a massage or enjoying a night out with friends after seeing several homes in one day. And when the process is finally over, plan a special vacation or splurge on something you’ve been wanting to buy for your new home. You don’t need to go all out – you’ll be paying for a mortgage! – but a treat every once in a while does wonders.
5. Know It Will All Work Out Eventually
A long house hunt can feel never-ending but remember that everything happens for a reason. Trust that you’ll find the perfect home when the time is right and don’t let disappointment or stress consume you. Keep an open mind and keep searching until you find your dream home.
Work With a Local Real Estate Agent in Your Home Search
It may not happen overnight, but with patience and perseverance, you’ll eventually find a house that suits all of your needs and wants. And in the meantime, cherish the time spent with loved ones at your current place. Stay positive and keep searching – your dream home is out there waiting for you!
If you’re in California, reach out to Camden Mckay Realty Group to assist in your home search. Our experienced agents will work tirelessly to find the perfect property for you and your family. Contact us today at (909) 841-0243 to get started!
