By Wendy Smith | Renew Living with Wendy
Intro
Let’s be real: House hunting can feel a little overwhelming, especially when every home has something to love… and something to second-guess.
Walk into one with the dream kitchen, but the closets are tiny. Another has the perfect view, but it’s on a steep hill. Before long, all the features start to blur together, and you’re wondering:
“What do I actually need in a home, and that’s just icing on the cake?”
That’s where a good old-fashioned Wants vs. Needs list becomes your best friend. It’s not just about staying organized; it’s about staying grounded in what truly matters to you.
Step 1: Define Your Non-Negotiables
Let’s start with the “needs.” These are the must-haves based on your lifestyle, health, plans, and the realities of living in Lake Havasu.
Many homes here are already single-story, which is great for those considering accessibility. But not every floorplan is created equal. Think about:
– Single-level living with a layout that flows easily
– Proximity to essentials like grocery stores or pharmacies (remember, Havasu doesn’t have long commutes, but convenience still matters)
– Low-maintenance landscaping because, let’s be honest, gardening in 110° heat isn’t everyone’s idea of relaxation
– Space for your boat, toys, or RV
– A comfortable indoor space, especially if you’re spending more time inside during the hotter months
– Access to medical care: our services here are limited, so being near your preferred clinic or pharmacy can make a big difference
Ask yourself:
– “Could I safely and comfortably live here if my needs changed?”
– “Does this location offer peace and practicality?”
– “Will this home age well with me, functionally and financially?”
Step 2: Identify Your Wants
Wants are those nice-to-have features that sweeten the deal but aren’t dealbreakers. They often appear on wish lists, Pinterest boards, and open-house daydreams.
Here in Havasu, that might look like:
– A pool or spa for cooling off in the summer
– A peekaboo lake or mountain view
– A gourmet kitchen for hosting the kids or grandkids
– Stylish finishes like quartz counters or accent walls
– An outdoor kitchen or firepit for fall evenings
None of these are “wrong” to want. In fact, they can absolutely elevate your lifestyle. But if they overshadow your needs, you may end up with a home that looks good on the outside but doesn’t feel right day to day.
Step 3: Rank and Revisit
Once you’ve got your list, rank your wants: true lifestyle enhancers and fun extras.
You might find that shaded outdoor seating is more important than a third garage bay. Or that natural light and ceiling fans trump having a wine fridge.
Don’t be afraid to tweak your list as you go. Seeing a few homes in person can quickly change what you thought mattered most.
Some reflective questions I would like to ask:
– “Does this home support the life you’re building next?”
– “Can you imagine your everyday routines feeling easier here?”
– “If we stripped away the shiny extras, would this home still work for you?”
Real Talk from the Trenches
A couple I recently worked with, let’s call them Sarah and David, came to Havasu with a long wish list: a pool, lake view, large kitchen, RV garage, and a big yard for gardening.
But after visiting a few homes and experiencing the desert heat firsthand, they realized a more manageable yard with shade trees and a rockscape made more sense. Instead of that oversized backyard, they chose a beautifully updated home with smart design, plenty of storage, and a peaceful covered patio.
They enjoy their space and mornings without battling a garden hose or sunburns.
Final Thought
Your Wants vs. Needs list isn’t a limitation. It’s a compass.
It keeps you focused, empowered, and clear-headed when emotions creep in. Because the truth is, the “perfect” home doesn’t exist. But the right one? It fits your life, your pace, and your peace of mind.
And that’s what we’re really looking for.