Curb your Impulse

There’s a thrill when you’re looking for a property to call your home. It all starts with that beautiful listing online—the pristine-looking kitchen, the natural light, the garden, the views—and next thing you know, you’re touring the apartment and visualizing each space with your own personal touch.
"Let’s get it off the market right away! I absolutely love it!"

Hold on... Real estate isn’t a pair of shoes you’re picking up. It’s a big commitment, and falling in love too fast can be hard on the knees.

Impulse buying in residential real estate is more common than you might think. Without a doubt, a home should make you feel something—energy is a big factor when deciding. Emotion is part of the journey; however, your crucial details and non-negotiables should be jotted down beforehand.

Why? Because when you’re emotionally swept up in a space, it’s easy to ignore the details that don’t fit your lifestyle long-term. That’s when you risk trading what’s beautiful today for what might become inconvenient tomorrow.

What Are Your Non-Negotiables?

Before you start touring, take time to write down what really matters to you—and stick to it. These are your must-haves and deal-breakers that reflect how you live now and how you plan to live in the years ahead.

Some examples:

• Maximum budget (with a buffer)
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms (think 10 years ahead…)
• Location and commute time
• HOA fees and property taxes
• Resale value or long-term investment potential

Think of this list as your filter. It protects you from getting swayed by staging, finishes, or emotional pull alone. When you walk into that “wow” property, your non-negotiables will help you ask: Does this actually work for me?

Buying a home is personal. The goal is to find something you love—and that also supports your lifestyle, your plans, and your budget. Writing down your non-negotiables puts you in the driver’s seat. It keeps the process intentional, grounded, and focused on what really matters.

So yes, fall in love with the view. But make sure the layout, the location, and the loan terms work just as well. Because a smart buy today is what gives you peace of mind tomorrow.