First-Time Buyer Discovery Questions - Things to Think About Before Talking with a REALTOR

Before you sit down with a REALTOR for the first time to talk about buying a home, there are some questions you should think about that will help you and your agent to locate that perfect home. 

🏡 First-Time Homebuyer Lifestyle & Goals Questionnaire

1. Lifestyle & Daily Routine

“How do you want your home to fit your lifestyle?”
Think about your daily rhythms — do you prefer quiet, privacy, and space, or do you thrive in a lively neighborhood close to shops and restaurants?

• Do you work from home and need an office or separate workspace?

• Do you entertain guests often or want an open floor plan?

• Would outdoor space (deck, yard, garden) improve your quality of life?

• Are low-maintenance or energy-efficient features important to you?

2. Location & Community Feel

“Where do you see yourself feeling ‘at home’?”
Location influences lifestyle, budget, and future resale value.

• Which cities or neighborhoods interest you — and what draws you to them (commute, schools, waterfront, vibe, etc.)?

• Would you rather live near work, family, or favorite hangouts?

• How important is walkability, access to parks, or being near the beach or downtown?

• Are there areas you definitely want to avoid?

3. Budget & Monthly Comfort Zone

“What’s your comfortable monthly payment range?”
Your first home should empower you, not stress you financially.

• What’s your total monthly budget for housing (mortgage, taxes, insurance, HOA)?

• Do you already have a pre-approval or target price range in mind?

• How much savings do you have available for down payment and closing costs?

• Would you be open to first-time buyer programs or down payment assistance?

4. Home Type & Living Space

“What kind of home do you picture yourself in?”
Think about how much space you truly need versus want.

• Condo, townhouse, single-family, or multi-family property?

• How many bedrooms and bathrooms are ideal?

• Do you want storage, basement, garage, or in-unit laundry?

• Would shared walls (like in a condo) be an issue for you?

5. Condition, Renovation, & Maintenance

“How hands-on are you willing to be?”
This helps balance price vs. convenience.

• Are you looking for something turnkey or willing to update/renovate?

• Do you enjoy DIY projects or prefer hiring professionals?

• Would you be okay with older systems or appliances if the price was right?

• Are you interested in Massachusetts new construction homes for low maintenance and modern features?

6. Commute, Accessibility & Convenience

“How important is location convenience?”
This affects both quality of life and resale value.

• What’s your maximum preferred commute time to work or key places?

• Do you need access to public transit or highways?

• Would you prioritize being close to grocery stores, gyms, or restaurants?

• Do you travel frequently and want easy access to an airport or major routes?

7. Lifestyle Features & Amenities

“What features make you feel ‘this is it’?”
These are personal comfort and lifestyle items.

• Do you want outdoor space, like a yard or balcony?

• Would you like a fireplace, modern kitchen, or hardwood floors?

• Is parking or a garage essential?

• Would you value smart-home tech, solar panels, or EV charging?

• How important is pet-friendliness or a fenced yard?

8. Future Plans & Flexibility

“How long do you see yourself in this home?”
Your time horizon affects the best type of property and financing.

• Do you plan to live there 3–5 years or longer?

• Is this a starter home or one you hope to keep and rent later?

• Would you consider building equity to trade up later?

• Are you thinking about family expansion, home-based business, or retirement use?

9. Financial & Investment Goals

“What role do you want your home to play in your financial picture?”

• Do you want to build long-term wealth or just have stability vs. renting?

• Are you focused on a low payment, appreciation potential, or future rental income?

• Would you consider a multi-family to help offset the mortgage?

• Are you concerned about property taxes or resale potential in your chosen area?

10. Deal Breakers

“What would make you instantly say ‘no thanks’?”
It’s just as important to define what you don’t want.

• Are there areas, features, or conditions that would make you walk away (e.g., busy streets, no parking, flood zone, high HOA fees, bad commute)?

• Any property age, layout, or design styles that are total turn-offs?

• Do you have allergies or lifestyle needs that rule out certain homes (e.g., carpet, no central AC, etc.)?

For an appointment to talk about your search for a home, contact:

Jim Armstrong - Broker, Real Estate Educator
Armstrong Field Group @ Aluxety Real Estate
978-394-6736