So You Want to Buy a House But Are Super Picky???

So as you know we are in the process of trying to buy our first home...  

Well this is a lot easier said than done.

I asked our relator if I was being too picky when looking.... he responded with "No!  You have to choose 5 things that the house must have and if it doesn't match those, then we keep on looking."

It was seriously the best thing to hear.  We have made our list and I really don't think that we are asking too much.  We are getting closer, but still haven't found it yet.

Here is our list:

1.  NO front facing bedroom windows

I know that most people won't understand this, but I do not want my kids or myself in a bedroom with a window facing the front yard.  I don't feel as though it is the safest and I know that I wouldn't feel comfortable there while Ryan is out of town.

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2.  Open floor plan

I want to be able to see my kids play in the living room while I make dinner or do dishes.  I don't want every room closed off from each other.  Also, an open floor plan allows for more light to travel through the house.

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3.  In a developed neighborhood

We want to live in a neighborhood that is already established with kind people around.  Now I know that I cannot interview our neighbors before we offer on a house, but when we look at a house and there are kids playing in the street and neighbors talk to one another, we feel very warm and welcome.  That is where we want to live and raise our kids.  Also, we do not want to live on the outside of the community or a busy street.  The quieter the better for us.

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4.  Fireplace

Now this probably isn't a "make it or break it" for us, but I would really prefer one.  I always loved having one growing up and haven't had one in the last 3 years.  I prefer wood burning, but gas is nice also.  Just as long as it provides us with heat I will be happy.

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5.  Big backyard

This is an absolute must!  With two dogs and babies on the way (just one for now - don't freak out!) we want plenty of room for everyone outside.  We want grass for the dogs and kids and then a big enough side yard for the toys and yard stuff.

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With all of that said, I have fully decided that we aren't being too picky.  There are plenty of houses out there and we just have to have patience and wait for the perfect one to come to us.

I know we will find it, although we thought we did twice already, but I am working on being more patient.  

Any house hunting tips??  I'd love to hear them!