From selecting a neighbourhood to deciding how to use a spare room, navigating the world of homeownership requires some extra work. Here are some simple tips that will help to ensure a “harmonious house hunt” without rocking the relationship:

Get pre-approved for a mortgage. There are few things worse than finding the perfect home, only to find out that it costs more than you can afford. Additionally, being pre-approved for a loan can help speed up the closing process once an offer has been accepted.

Set a budget. Beyond basic income and savings, there are other financial elements to consider. Once a couple has decided on a location, the next step is to add up monthly bills, car payments, phone bills, insurance, groceries, etc. This total estimated cost of living should be factored into the couple’s overall budget.

Get on the same page. Whether it is a quiet neighbourhood or a two-car garage, everyone has their own “must haves”. Once the list of “must haves” is finalized, your realtor can help you determine if your expectations are realistic given the homes currently on the market.

Allocate additional funds. The down payment isn’t the only cost involved in purchasing a new home. Even after both individual’s belongings are combined, there will still be a need to purchase furniture and things like a washer and dryer, requiring more room in the budget.
Take inventory of everyone’s belongings. Consider selling unwanted pieces of furniture online, or holding a garage sale. Sign a contract. For a couple it’s important to contact a real estate lawyer before closing on a home. A contract should be drawn up outlining who is responsible for what expenses and how assets will be divided in the event of a split.

Be patient.