Your perfect home wish list

Now that you have decided to enter the property market for the first time, it's important that you assess your property needs so you know what you're looking for. The best way to do this is by making a wish list says Mike Greeff, CEO of Greeff Christie's International Real Estate. It's the ideal way to separate your needs from your ''nice-to-haves'' - this will set you on a clear path to the home of your dreams.

Below are a few factors to consider when creating your perfect home wish list.

1. How to choose the best area to live in

When you buy a home, it's important to remember that you are also buying into the neighborhood. You need to make sure that the area you choose, suits your lifestyle.

It's imperative to identify the wants and needs you have of your home as well as the location, before making the commitment to home ownership. From noise pollution to area amenities, there are many things that need to be considered. The best way to decide on an area, is by determining what's most important to you in the long term.

Drawing up a list can be a good place to start and you can include the following factors as a starting point:

• Do you prefer a quiet suburb or a bustling CBD?
• What amenities would you like to have close by (gyms, shopping malls, etc)?
• Do you require access to public transport?
• Do you need to be close to schools?
• Are you looking for an area with certain schools or places of worship?
• What is the ideal view you are looking for (mountain, ocean, etc)?

2. What type of home are you looking for?

Once you have a list of preferred neighbourhoods, it's time to decide on the type of home you would like to have. There are copious homes on the market, so narrowing down your choices will help you simplify the search. The easiest way to go about this is by looking at the features of a home you want and then the type of home you want.  Consider your needs now and try your best to predict your needs in 10 years' time. If your requirements might change during that time, you should make sure your home will still be able to accommodate your needs.

3. Go back to basics

With your neighbourhood and type of home chosen, it's now time to reel it in. What are the absolutely essential requirements for your home and lifestyle? Important considerations you might need to take into account are the number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms and erf size. Other must-haves might include a garden, outside features and off-street parking. Also consider livability: is renovating an option, or are you wanting to find a turnkey home? While making a list of your must-haves, make a list of negotiable at the same time.

4. Add the nice-to-haves

Below your must-haves, start noting down the features you deem appealing, but not essential. These are features that you wouldn't turn down, but at the same time, it's not a make or break. Interior features could also fall into this category - think hardwood flooring and stone countertops, as well as central air conditioning or a fireplace.

5. Consult the experts

Finally, round out your list with a little bit of expert intel. Chat to a real estate agent and get their advice on what else you should be tacking onto your list. While these items shouldn't take over your wants and needs, they're nevertheless worth keeping in mind as you navigate your search for the perfect property.

Buying a home is a big financial commitment and can be a time-consuming exercise but it can also be a fun and exciting experience. Armed with your perfect home wish list, you now know what you want and what you're looking for - this will make the process so much easier. Happy hunting!