Buying a home can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot of information, a lot of emotion, and usually a lot of opinions coming at you from every direction. My goal, always, is to make the process feel exciting instead of stressful and intentional instead of chaotic.
By now, you probably know my philosophy: the key to a smoother buying experience is going in prepared. That part isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential. When you start with a solid foundation, everything else feels easier and, honestly, more fun.
Preparation Is the Secret Sauce
Before we ever step foot into a house, I make sure my clients are set up for success. That means having a pre-approval in hand and a trusted team already lined up. Loan officer. Attorney. Home inspector. And of course, me.
If you’re working with me, I have you covered. I connect you with professionals I trust and work with regularly, so you’re not scrambling or guessing as things move forward. When everyone knows their role, the process flows.
And once that prep work is done? That’s when the fun part really begins.
Turning House Hunting Into a Weekend Experience
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that house hunting isn’t just about the house. It’s about the lifestyle that comes with it. And that’s where I like to do things a little differently.
Instead of bouncing all over the place, I love to focus on one town at a time. We’ll spend part of the day seeing homes, and then I send my clients off on a self-guided tour of the area. Think of it like a mini immersion into what life could actually look like there.
I give them a curated list of spots to check out, and I always encourage them to slow down and explore.
What I Tell My Clients to Look For
I ask my clients to pay attention to the things that will matter in everyday life, not just what looks good in photos.
• Drive past the schools and libraries
• Walk through the downtown area
• Notice how close grocery stores and pharmacies are
• Check out parks, fields, and playgrounds
• Take a look at beaches or waterfront access if it applies
• And yes, absolutely explore the restaurants
I always suggest making time for lunch or dinner in town. Sit, eat, people-watch, and get a feel for the energy. You learn so much about a place just by being in it.
Why This Works
This approach takes the pressure off. Instead of trying to decide everything in one afternoon, clients get to experience each town in a more natural way. It becomes less about “Is this the right house?” and more about “Can I see my life here?”
It also makes the process more memorable. Weekend tours start to feel like mini adventures instead of stressful checklists. And when a home finally clicks, it’s usually because the town already does too.
The Big Picture
Buying a home is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to feel heavy the entire time. With the right preparation, the right team, and a little room to explore, it can actually be enjoyable.
Living by Design applies here too. It’s not just about where you land, it’s about how you get there and making sure the journey feels just as good as the outcome.
And yes, that includes a good lunch along the way.
Realtor Stacey Donadio 