Navigating what to prioritize in your Florida dream home can be challenging. There are lots of things to consider, but the process will be enjoyable when you follow a simple checklist of what is important to consider! A checklist will help narrow down your searches and keep you on track when house hunting.

Our home is a place that provides comfort and a scene of security from the rest of the world. The process of writing down what’s essential will inspire you to dream big and create the path to finding your dream home in Florida.

1. Think About Your Budget

First thing’s first: Figuring out how much money you can spend on the house.

It’s essential to set the pricing up early in the process so you can have an idea of what expectations to be looking at. If you need help calculating, try using a mortgage calculator to get the ball rolling.

Along with that, consider the price of homeowner’s insurance. The beautiful state of Florida is known for several hazards, so be sure you’re protected.

2. Consider Your Location

What comes to mind when you think of preferences for what's nearby? Do you need easy access to an airport, or do you enjoy a beautiful view of the beach out your window?

Take into consideration what fits your lifestyle best. Sometimes you need to compromise on the view in favor of close and convenient public transportation. Keep in mind that the location of your home should be fitted to your needs and desires.

3. Amenities and Special Preferences

What are some things you can’t go without in your home? Maybe it's a pool, a cooling system, or even hardwood floors. The key to making sure your home is what you always wanted is to keep it personalized.

Sometimes, it can be hard to find a home with all the amenities and preferences you want. Luckily, with some interior design, you can make your house feel like a home that matches your vision.

A popular theme today is minimalist interior design. It uses inspiration from Japanese design to create a simple yet practical look. Furniture often doubles as storage, and the designs often follow simple geometric shapes to keep a clean, simple look. If minimalist isn’t your style, there are plenty of other interior design styles to fit your personality, like:

Modern: Uses pops of color, accent furniture, and minimal decor.
Industrial: Exposed pipes, neutral color schemes, and textured blankets and rugs.
Coastal: Includes bright colors, seashell and anchor decor, and striped wallpapers.
Shabby chic: Has vintage furniture, decorative pillows, and muted floral patterns.

These are just a few of the many interior design schools of thought that may spark your creative side. There is no wrong answer! Whichever design resonates with your personal style is best for you.

4. Size and Layout

Last but not least, what are your ideal size and layout for the house? Try to keep a minimum and maximum number of how many bedrooms or bathrooms you would like to have. The question of whether you would rather have a dining room or a laundry room could determine which house is a better fit for you.

Final Thoughts

You may also want to look into what your home is actually made of. For example, engineered hardwood is an excellent material for your home since the humidity and heat fluctuate often. Making sure your home can withstand Florida’s weather conditions is vital to recognize when searching. Beyond the other advice listed here, don’t forget to have fun with the process!