No matter the state of the housing market, the search for a house leaves virtually everyone on the edge of their seat for days on end.

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A frazzled, exhausted mind is certainly not ideal for making such a big decision, so let’s go over some quick tips for staying sane during house hunting.

1. Avoid Falling in Love (With a Property)

Falling in love with a property you haven’t bought spells nothing but disaster. Many more scenarios end with you not getting the house you fell in love with than scenarios that put you and the property together.

House hunting is exhausting, and it’s easy to fall in love with a property that checks all your boxes on day one, but a few things to keep in mind:

• Love at first sight usually means you haven’t seen the gross underbelly of a property yet (mold issues, faulty infrastructure, or tight HOAs, as a few examples)
• Going all-in on one house can lead you to go over budget
• The feeling of not winning the bid on your dream house is absolute (and avoidable) devastation

2. Seek Out Potential Everywhere

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On the opposite end of the spectrum, try to stay optimistic about every property you see. Some are a hard “no” no matter how you look at it, but every property offers some insight into your ideal home.

Instead of crossing a property off a list for a tiny bathroom despite loving everything else, consider if it’s something you can adjust to or modify later.

Even if you aren’t looking to do a ton of home renovation when you move in, remember that you have your home for years to come. If the property seems like a place that can grow and change with you, consider it a contender.

3. Turn To Your Agent

Some aspects of real estate are beyond intense. It’s important to stay involved, but some things, like the ever-annoying multiple competing offer scenario, require years of experience and intercommunication skills to navigate. In situations like these, remember to rely on your real estate agent.

Ask open, honest questions and look for open, honest answers in return. A great real estate agent doesn’t just take off your plate; they share their understanding and expertise with you and guide you towards a decision that makes sense.

Following these tips from the house hunting checklist for staying sane during house hunting won’t make the process any easier, at least logistically speaking. However, they should help you pull out less hair and get better sleep at night while you search for your dream property.

Remember to keep an open mind, breathe, and make this life-changing choice with as level a head as possible.