How to House Hunt (Successfully)

House hunting can be both exciting and daunting, especially in a challenging market. With limited inventory and fierce competition,...

Josh Dawson

April 23rd, 2024

4 min read

House hunting can be both exciting and daunting, especially in a challenging market. With limited inventory and fierce competition, finding your dream home might seem like searching for a needle in a haystack. However, armed with the right strategies and a proactive mindset, you can navigate the housing market with confidence and success. Here are some innovative tips to help you ace your house hunting journey:

Create a Dynamic Wishlist

Begin by crafting a wishlist that goes beyond just the basic criteria like the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. Consider your lifestyle preferences, such as proximity to certain amenities, preferred architectural styles, or outdoor space requirements. But don't stop there! Create a dynamic wishlist that allows for flexibility and prioritization. Rank your wishlist items in order of importance and be prepared to make trade-offs if necessary.

Leverage Virtual Reality (VR) Tours

In today's digital age, harness the power of technology to tour homes from the comfort of your couch. Many listings now offer immersive VR tours that provide a realistic 3D experience of the property. Take advantage of this tool to narrow down your options efficiently and only visit homes that truly pique your interest.

Expand your house hunting network by following real estate influencers, agents, and local community groups on social media platforms. These channels often showcase off-market listings, exclusive deals, and insider tips that you won't find elsewhere. Engage with the online community, ask questions, and stay informed about the latest trends in your target neighborhoods.

Attend Twilight Open Houses

Stand out from the crowd by attending twilight open houses, which are typically held in the evening hours. These less conventional viewing times often attract fewer attendees, giving you more one-on-one time with the listing agent and a better chance to explore the property without feeling rushed. Plus, viewing homes in different lighting conditions can offer valuable insights into their ambiance and atmosphere.

Master the Art of Negotiation

Negotiation skills can make or break your house hunting success. Instead of focusing solely on price negotiations, consider other aspects of the deal that can sweeten the pot. Offer flexible closing dates, consider waiving certain contingencies (with caution), or include an earnest money deposit to show how serious you are about the purchase. Sometimes, it's the extra touch that seals the deal.

Explore Unconventional Neighborhoods

Don't limit yourself to the most popular or trendy neighborhoods. Expand your horizons and explore up-and-coming areas or hidden gems that might offer better value for your budget. Look for neighborhoods undergoing revitalization, new infrastructure developments, or proximity to emerging hotspots. You might just discover your dream home in an unexpected location that provides huge financial gains in the long run.

Think Long-Term Investment

While it's essential to find a home that meets your immediate needs, don't overlook its long-term investment potential. Research local market trends, future development plans, and school district ratings to gauge the property's appreciation potential. Consider factors like resale value, rental income potential, and overall market stability to make an informed decision that pays off in the long term.

Create a Comprehensive House Hunting Checklist

Keep track of important details and stay organized throughout your house hunting journey with a comprehensive checklist. Include items such as property specifications, neighborhood amenities, inspection notes, and financial considerations. Utilize digital tools or apps to streamline your checklist and access it on the go, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

Partner with an Expert Real Estate Agent

Last but certainly not least, enlist the help of a seasoned real estate agent who knows the local market inside out. An experienced agent can offer invaluable guidance, negotiate on your behalf, and provide access to exclusive listings that aren't available to the general public. Choose an agent who understands your unique needs and preferences, and who is committed to finding the perfect home for you.

House hunting in a challenging market requires a combination of creativity, perseverance, and strategic thinking. By embracing innovative approaches, leveraging technology, and partnering with the right professionals, you can turn your house hunting dreams into reality. Stay proactive, stay informed, and above all, stay positive—you're one step closer to finding your perfect home. Happy hunting!

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About the author

Josh Dawson

614.706.6288

Buying or selling real estate is more than a transaction—it’s a major life decision. You deserve a guide who brings not just experience, but clarity, strategy, and trust to the table. That’s where I come in. I was born and raised in Fostoria, Ohio—a blue-collar factory town where your word meant everything and people treated each other with respect. I come from a family of military veterans, tradesmen, and kind-hearted Midwesterners who taught me to do good, be good, and work hard. I carried those values with me to Ohio Wesleyan University, where I played football and graduated with the same commitment to perseverance and teamwork I bring to every client relationship today. My real estate career began not in Central Ohio, but as part of a Wall Street Journal Top 100 Team in Boston—one of the fastest-moving, most competitive markets in the country. Before real estate, I served in senior political roles, including State Director for the Massachusetts State Treasurer and Legislative Director in the State Senate. I even ran for State Representative and earned an endorsement from The Boston Globe—because I’ve always been driven to serve people, solve complex problems, and lead with integrity. Today, I bring those same values into my work as a real estate professional and former managing broker. I’ve led agents, negotiated complicated transactions, and taught hundreds of professionals how to master real estate contracts. I don’t just understand the fine print—I’ve taught from it. That insight often helps me make small but strategic contract adjustments that protect my clients or save them tens of thousands of dollars. I currently serve on the Columbus Realtors Broker Advisory Committee and am the Past-President of the Greater Dublin Realty Association, where I continue to advocate for professionalism, education, and client-first service across our industry. Clients know me for my steady communication and proactive approach. I hold weekly check-ins to ensure no one ever wonders, “What’s happening?” or “What’s next?” Whether I’m guiding a family through an emotional sale or helping a first-time buyer make a strong start, I act with clarity, empathy, and your long-term goals in mind. When I’m not working, you’ll often find me coaching my daughter’s softball team, spending time with my family, or fishing and boating in Port Clinton, where my parents now live. I live in Dublin with my amazing wife and our two beautiful daughters—and I consider it an honor to serve families across Central Ohio with focus, care, and professionalism. If you're ready to move forward with purpose, I’m here to help you do it wisely.