New Year, New Home: Tips for Setting Real Estate Goals
The start of a new year is an ideal time to focus on setting real estate goals, especially for military families planning their next move. Military life often comes with unique challenges and frequent relocations, making it crucial to establish a clear plan for your housing needs. At Dorazio Real Estate, we understand the importance of aligning your real estate goals with your family’s lifestyle and future plans. Here are six practical tips to help you set and achieve meaningful real estate goals this year.
1. Assess Your Current Situation
Take stock of your current living situation by identifying what works and what doesn’t. Do you enjoy the size of your current home, or are you looking for more space? Is the commute to the nearest military installation manageable? Evaluate your neighborhood as well—proximity to schools, amenities, and your sense of community are important factors. This honest assessment provides a foundation for your real estate goals by helping you prioritize what changes are most important.
2. Define Your Priorities
For military families, priorities often revolve around access to base facilities, good schools, and a supportive community. Think about your family’s unique needs. Are you looking for a short commute to work? Do you need a home office or a big backyard? Clearly defining your priorities will not only help you zero in on the right property but also save you time and energy during the home search process.
3. Set Realistic and Achievable Goals
While big dreams are important, breaking them into smaller, actionable steps makes them more attainable. Instead of saying, “We want to buy a new home,” set specific goals like, “Research VA loan options by the end of the month” or “Attend at least one home-buying seminar.” These smaller steps keep you motivated and help you track progress, ensuring you stay on course throughout the year.
4. Research Local Markets
Understanding local real estate markets is key to making informed decisions. For military families, this means researching areas near your next duty station. Pay attention to housing trends, average home prices, and the rental market if you’re considering becoming a landlord (FYI, The Dorazio Team has significant experience helping clients use their VA loan to purchase multifamily investment properties!). Tools like market reports and online resources can provide valuable insights.We tailored market analyses to help you understand the best options in your target area.
5. Collaborate with a Realtor
Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can make a world of difference. Realtors with experience assisting military families, like those at Dorazio Real Estate, understand the nuances of VA loans, BAH budgeting, and PCS timelines. Our agents can guide you through the complexities of buying, selling, or renting while ensuring that your family’s needs remain the top priority.
6. Create a Timeline
A well-thought-out timeline is essential for staying on track. Start by determining key dates, such as your next PCS move or school enrollment deadlines. Work backward to establish milestones—for instance, scheduling home tours, making offers, or closing on a property. With a clear timeline, you can stay organized and ensure a smoother transition for your family.
As a MIL-estate partner, Dorazio Real Estate is proud to support military families in achieving their real estate goals. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or rent, our experienced team is here to provide personalized guidance every step of the way. Start the year off right by turning your housing dreams into achievable goals.
