You’ve finally decided to go for it! House hunting is on the agenda and you want to be prepared for the process. That’s smart! But before you jump in head first and start attending open houses and exploring new neighborhoods, you’ll want consider these first steps:

• Talk with your bank. You’ll want to get pre-approved for a mortgage before making an offer on a new place. A lender can help you decide how much house you can afford and what type of loan is best for you.
• Find a real estate agent. Consider working with an agent if you’re buying or selling your home. They will not only help you get top dollar for the house you’re selling but they’ll also help you find the best home for your budget.
• Determine what you want/need. Do you want a single-family home? Or, maybe a duplex? What are you bedroom, bathroom and square footage requirements?
• Decide when you want to move. Give your real estate agent a timeline. This will likely be based on your job or kids’ school, the season or even family changes, like marriage, divorce or a new baby.
• Prepare to move. If you have a home to sell, you’ll need time to make upgrades or repairs and do deep any cleaning before open houses are scheduled.

Once you’re ready to start house hunting, the first thing is to choose an area or a community you’d like to focus on. As you browse, there are several aspects to consider.

• Will you be in this home for many years?
• If you have children, or are just starting a family, is the home in a community with schools you like?
• Does this community offer the amenities you’re looking for?
• Is there convenient access to local retail centers for shopping?
• If you have pets, are there animal services like veterinarians and grooming shops nearby?
• And what about a dog park and walking trails?

As you drive around various neighborhoods, also take note of the community itself. Does the prospective community have the type of environment and community life that you’re seeking?

• Does the community feel welcoming?
• Is the community clean and well maintained?
• Are there regular HOA meetings to voice opinions and concerns?
• Is there a community center where residents gather for game nights or seasonal parties?
• Is there a community pool to cool off in during the hot summer months?
• Does the community offer various green spaces, parks for young children, and sports courts for teens?

As you work through this community and house hunting guide, consider exploring the Copperleaf Community. We’ve got it all: great schools, scenic trails, a clubhouse, swimming pool and so much more. We’re conveniently located just outside Denver, in Aurora with easy access to Denver International Airport, E-470, and much more. We have a variety of new homes and floorplans available for you and your family.