The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect and set goals for the months ahead. If one of your 2025 goals is to buy or sell a home, you might be wondering where to begin. How do you turn that dream into reality?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started on your journey to a new home.
Focus on Your Why
Before diving into the logistics, it’s important to focus on why you want to move. While the financial side matters, the driving force behind your decision is just as important. Are you:
- Looking for more space to accommodate a growing family?
- Ready to downsize and simplify your life?
- Finally prepared to buy your first home?
Whatever your reason, keep it front and center. Your “why” will keep you motivated throughout the process. Share it with your real estate agent, and they’ll use their expertise to support your goal, no matter what the market looks like. With a great agent by your side, you’ll have someone to guide you, solve problems, and keep you moving forward until you achieve your real estate goals.
Get Clear on What You Need
Once you’ve identified your motivation, it’s time to figure out what your next home needs to have. Consider these questions:
- How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?
- Is a home office a must-have?
- Do you want a large fenced-in backyard for pets or kids?
Since affordability is still tight in many markets, it’s crucial to identify your must-haves and nice-to-haves upfront. Maybe you’re flexible on location if the home meets all your other criteria. Review these essentials with your agent—they’ll help you focus on properties that fit your needs and budget.
For more home search tips, visit Realtor.com.
Know Your Numbers
Before jumping into the market, take a close look at your finances. Ask yourself:
- How much have I saved for a down payment?
- What monthly mortgage payment feels comfortable?
- What’s my current debt-to-income ratio?
Partnering with trusted real estate professionals, like a local agent and a lender, is key. They’ll help you:
- Plan for your down payment and explore down payment assistance programs
- Understand the equity in your current home (if you’re selling)
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage so you know exactly how much you can borrow
Learn more about pre-approval from Bankrate.
Lean on a Pro To Guide You
Navigating the housing market can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. A skilled real estate agent knows what steps to take to get you ready to buy or sell, how to handle the process, and can answer your questions along the way.
As Bankrate puts it:
“… now more than ever, it’s smart to lean on the guidance of an experienced local real estate agent. If you want to enter the housing market in 2025, whether as a buyer or a seller, let a pro lead the way for you.”
With the right expert on your team, you’ll feel confident navigating the 2025 housing market and achieving your real estate goals.
Bottom Line
If buying or selling a home is part of your goals for 2025, now’s the perfect time to get started. Focus on your why, know what you need, and connect with trusted professionals to make it happen.
Let’s connect and make this the year you achieve your real estate resolutions. Together, we can create a plan that helps you find your dream home or sell your current one for top dollar.
