House hunting but don’t know what to look for or where to start?  Well, it’s expected. Whether seeking to buy or rent, house hunting can be quite exhausting. The endless house tours, sleepless nights, and time taken to consider which is most appropriate can sure take its toll. 
While searching, it’s easy to get carried away and make hasty complicated decisions. To avoid this and to help reduce undue stress, a handful of practical hints have been put together for you.
House Hunting Tips
For starters, there are several factors to consider before you proceed on your search. Do you have a budget? What is the maximum amount you can afford to spend on a house? Where is your preferred location (considering work commute etc.)? What are your needs regarding facilities? Will you require more space over time? How many bedrooms would be appropriate? What style of a building do you want? What are the ideal features you want in a house?
When thinking through all of these factors, your needs and likes should be clearly defined and differentiated. Streamline carefully, set priorities right and you’ll be amazed at how easy drawing up a checklist will be. Do this and you’ve got yourself a well-laid out plan that makes your pursuit comfortable.
Armed with a list of priorities, you may proceed with the aid of an estate agent. Working with agencies can lessen the stress as they are professionals in the business. However, ensure to get a trusted one. Asking friends for recommendations is a step in the right direction. And while you’re at it, try to worm your way into his confidence. It works like magic in earning their respect. And you get to enjoy more information and first preference too!

Keep track of the various houses you visit. Ask to take pictures where possible. Checking out different places can be overwhelming, and there’s the possibility to forget the pros and cons, and several amenities of every house you’ve seen. Keeping track of all of these for appropriate comparison is important.
When on house tours, check out the functionality of the facilities. Take a good look around the rooms and focus on important places like the ceilings, walls, floors, cupboards, windows, roof and under the sinks. Are there costly features that need to be changed? Note them and discuss cost implications.
Seen one you like? Get a feel of the area before you seal the deal (especially if the search was conducted online). Check out the property at different times of the day. If planning a second viewing, visit at a different time of day from your first. Check out the surroundings for hints of vices. Be patient and charming enough to have talks with the neighbours. You’re bound to discover a lot by asking relevant questions.
Still searching? Always remind yourself of your priorities and maintain realistic expectations. Don’t be too timid to criticise or voice any concern you have about a prospective home. It will save you future complications.
All the best!