12 Questions to Ask Yourself First

The Perfect Fit Series

Week 2: How to Find the Right Home — 12 Questions to Ask Yourself First

Before you start touring homes or scrolling listings, pause for a moment. The best home decisions start long before the first showing. Taking time to get clear about what really matters—your lifestyle, your goals, and your priorities—will make every step smoother. These questions are designed to help you think through what “perfect” means for you right now.

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Why This Step Matters

Most buyers rush to open houses the moment they feel ready to move. But if you skip the reflection stage, you risk ending up with a home that fits your budget but not your life.

Asking yourself these questions now will help you avoid buyer’s remorse, missed opportunities, and that unsettled “maybe this isn’t right” feeling later.

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12 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Step Foot in an Open House

1. How long do I plan to live in this next home? Are you buying for the next three years or the next ten? Your timeframe changes everything—from the kind of property you buy to how you finance it.
2. What will life look like during that time? Will you be working remotely, starting a new chapter, or planning for retirement? Choose a home that fits the season of life you’re stepping into—not the one you’re leaving behind.
3. What do I love about my current lifestyle that I’m not willing to give up? Think: morning coffee spots, walkable neighborhoods, or space for a favorite hobby. The goal isn’t to recreate your old home—it’s to preserve what brings you joy.
4. Am I a homebody or an explorer? If you love quiet nights in, maybe a cozy layout makes more sense than extra square footage. If you thrive on getting out and about, proximity may matter more than space.
5.  How important is commute and convenience? Even in Florida, where “remote work” is common, location still shapes your daily rhythm. Consider proximity to the things you actually use—shops, parks, marinas, or airports.
6. What are my personal and financial goals in this season? Will your income, job, or family needs change in the next few years? Your home should give you flexibility—not lock you into a lifestyle you might outgrow.
7. What hobbies or interests do I want my home to support? Whether that’s gardening, boating, or painting, a home that makes space for what you love will always feel more like yours.
8.  Am I more of a “location” person or a “house” person? If you value neighborhood energy and community, location may win. If you crave space, privacy, and upgrades, the home itself may matter more. Knowing which you are helps you focus.
9. Will schools or community amenities play a role in this decision? Even if school districts don’t affect you directly, areas with strong ratings often hold property value better. For relocators, that can matter long-term.
10. What do I want to change from my current home? List what frustrates you daily—poor layout, limited storage, yard upkeep—and what you absolutely must have next time around.
11.  If everything went perfectly, what would this next home look and feel like? Dream a little here. Write it out. Sometimes the process of visualizing helps you see what you value most.
12.  What would I be willing to compromise on? Every home requires trade-offs. Decide now which ones you’re okay with so you don’t feel pressured later.

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RELOCATION TIP

If you’re moving to Florida, your priorities might shift once you’re here. Many buyers start with “I want a pool” and end up realizing shade and storage matter more. Keep your list flexible—you’ll see things differently once you’ve explored a few local neighborhoods.

The Bottom Line….

Asking the right questions now will save you time, stress, and second-guessing later. The goal isn’t to find a perfect house—it’s to find the one that perfectly fits your life.

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📩Need help narrowing your focus?
Email me anytime, and I’ll help you turn your answers into a clear plan for your next move.

→ april@planmyfloridamove.com

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Ready to start planning out a move?

You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just tell me your story – and I’ll help you build a plan that makes sense. SCHEDULE A QUICK CHAT

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