Similar to the list you develop to purchase groceries, it is wise to develop your own list of needs and wants when shopping for a new home in Okotoks or Calgary. This doesn’t mean you can’t have what you want in your home, but rather, that you have a priority list of the most important features - your NEEDS will be met first, followed by your wanted features.

You may not be able to obtain all the “want” items on your list, within your budget, but at least you and your real estate agent will have a clearer idea of what to look for. You may have to compromise on a few items to stay in line with your budget.

Here’s a review of example needs versus wants: 

NEEDS – may include:

• Adequate square footage for comfortable living 
• Sufficient bedrooms for your family 
• Sufficient bathrooms 
• Comfortable eat-in kitchen 
• Garage or basement for storage needs
• Backyard for children’s play area 
• Easy access to schools 

WANTS – could include:

• Specific carpeting, paint, exterior color, etc.  
• Hot tub or jacuzzi bath  
• Hardwood floors 
• Bay windows 
• Built-in entertainment center
• Brass lighting fixtures 
• Skylights 
• A pleasant view

Try to establish a happy medium of your NEEDS and WANTS. That is, you’ll want to look for a home that includes all of your needs, with as many wants as practical, while remaining within your budget. Once you have this information in hand, your needs will be clearly defined from your wants. Having this knowledge will establish a clear direction for your new home shopping.