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How to Find Your Dream Home as a Single Woman [9 Tips You Need to Know]

Author: Jamie Milam

Date: January 2, 2025

Even though there is no one right way to live your life, we're often sold a type of "American dream" that involves a partner, a dog, two kids, and—of course—a dream home with a white picket fence.

But that isn't my dream, and it might not be yours! And I'm here to tell you: everyone deserves to build an aligned life! Including single and independent women. You get to build your dream life, including buying a house. It's not just reserved for couples—you can also buy the dream home you deserve.

But buying a house as a woman on your own comes with its own challenges to navigate. You have only one income and are making decisions independently. Plus, you have safety and other factors to consider—lifestyle being a big one (e.g., finding a home in Charlotte that aligns with your love of music!).

So, let's talk about how to find your dream home as a single woman. Here are the nine things you need to know.

9 Tips for Buying a House as a Single Woman

Buying a house is always a big decision, a big purchase, and a big commitment. And when you're a single woman, this can feel like a daunting process to do on your own. Buying a house as a woman on your own—whether you're a first-time homebuyer or not—requires careful thought, planning, and decision-making.

But with some intentional planning, you can absolutely find and purchase your dream home as a single gal. Here are 9 things you need to think about:

Text that says "Your home should feel like an extension of you, whether it's through architecture, interior design, or sustainability features like energy efficiency. You want to love where you live and feel cozy when you step through the door. Identifying your priorities at the beginning of this process is key to finding a house that aligns with your style and values."

1. Clarify Your Priorities

Before diving into house listings, take time to list out what matters most to you in a home. When looking for a house as a single woman, you'll want to consider factors like:

Being close to work or family.
Prioritizing safety and security features.
Number of rooms and what purposes they'll serve.
Features like a backyard or large kitchen.
Design features and style.

Make a T-chart style list—on one side put your must-haves and on the other list out your would-be-nice-to-haves. I usually tell my clients that if you have ten items on your list and we can identify a property that has 70% of the list, it's time to consider an offer.

By defining your must-haves (and nice-to-haves), you'll save time and stay focused during your search. It's also important that you're really focusing on your priorities, not someone else's. While you may want to seek advice from other people, remember that this is your dream home and it needs to suit your needs. Even if it's your dream home for this season of your life.

Pro tip: If you're recently divorced and looking for your new home as a single woman, you can think about what you don't want based on your previous living situation and prioritize things that support your goals post-divorce.

2. Budget Smart for Single Living

Buying a house as a solo woman means your financial decisions rest solely on your shoulders—both a freedom and a responsibility.

Start by calculating how much you can afford based on your income and financial assets, while also considering factors such as:

Lifestyle and future goals.
Proximity to activities & support systems.
Renovations, maintenance, and routine upkeep.
Utilities.
Property taxes and insurance.
Today's interest rates.

Along with having budget for all the single-woman essential items you need, don't forget to leave room for your joys, whether that's travel, dining out, or weekend hobbies! The right home shouldn't stretch you so thin financially that you can't enjoy your life out of it. So, be realistic about what you can afford while building the lifestyle you deserve.

Pro tip: If divorce settlements or shared debts are affecting your finances, speak with a financial advisor to get clarity before committing to a mortgage. Think about it like starting a fresh project and don't get hung up on the things you had in your last home that you may not be able to afford now on just one income.

3. Choose the Right Neighborhood for Your Lifestyle

Are you a city dweller who thrives on being close to restaurants and coffee shops? Or, do you prefer the quiet of the suburbs? Perhaps you're somewhere in the middle, dreaming of a walkable community with parks and markets. Only you can determine the right neighborhood for your lifestyle, both as it stands now and how you want to create it.

Talk with your Realtor® about what you'd like your everyday living to be like so they can offer some options for you based on what you share. Scout out neighborhoods that match your lifestyle by envisioning your day-to-day routines. It's important to be real with yourself and what you want so you don't get stuck somewhere you can't stand.

4. Prioritize Safety

Safety isn't negotiable during the search for your dream home. And I know it's always top-of-mind for single women! Specifically related to house-hunting, consider:

Security features in the home like good doors and locks or security systems. If it doesn't have the features you want, think about if you can install them.
Where the home is located, and if it's on a well-lit street or not. Is it close to other houses? Is it on a main street or more secluded? Will you be walking alone in the area a lot? Does the neighborhood have sidewalks or amenities that encourage neighborly interactions?
The surrounding community and who lives in the neighborhood. Ideally, it's a close-knit community with some people in a similar demographic and life stage as you. Drive through the neighborhood in the evenings and weekends to scope out what type of activities are happening and how neighborly it appears.
Think about what your lifestyle will entail. Do you plan to travel a lot? If so, do you need a garage to feel your vehicle is secure? If there isn't one, can one be built?

Image of a woman sitting on a couch with her dog, and the text "How to Find Your Dream Home as a Single Woman [9 Tips You Need to Know]"

5. Consider Future Flexibility

While you're buying a home for current you, it's important to also consider future you's wishes and plans. Life changes and your home should be able to change with you. So when you're looking for your dream house as a single woman, also consider things like:

Space for remote work.
Hosting out-of-town guests.
Specific areas for hobbies and activities.
Extra space if you desire a partner or kids in the future.
The amount of work the property needs & if it's feasible.
Ability to rent out the property should you purchase another home later.

Pro tip: If you're unsure about long-term plans, consider buying a property with good resale or rental potential. This gives you options if your circumstances change.

6. Invest in a Home that Reflects Your Style and Values

Your home should feel like an extension of you, whether it's through architecture, interior design, or sustainability features like energy efficiency. You want to love where you live and feel cozy when you step through the door.

Identifying your priorities at the beginning of this process is key to finding a house that aligns with your style and values. Tapping into self-awareness and listening to your intuition is also key here! We often get a deep inner sense if something is "right" or "wrong," so listen to that intuition when you step through the doors of a house.

Pro tip: If you're transitioning out of a shared home and purchasing a house as a solo woman, lean into this fresh start to define your style! Pinterest boards and interior design services like Style to Design can really help you out here.

Text that says "I'm here to tell you: everyone deserves to build an aligned life! Including single and independent women. You get to build your dream life, including buying a house. It's not just reserved for couples—you can also buy the dream home you deserve."

7. Plan for Home Maintenance and Repairs

As a solo homeowner, you'll be the one calling the plumber or fixing that squeaky door. When touring homes, think about the upkeep—older homes may have charm and could require more repairs, while newer builds might be less demanding. Your real estate agent should have resources to help you quote out the most daunting repair needs during your inspection period so you can make a financially informed decision before heading to the closing table. Make sure that the work the property needs is realistic for your abilities.

Consider asking for a home warranty as part of your purchase agreement. While it may not cover everything, it can be a great safety net for unexpected repairs in the first year. Note that they do have coverage caps and need to be renewed annually, but can help offset some unforeseen expenses.

Pro tip: Build a go-to list of trusted professionals—plumbers, electricians, and handypeople—before you need them. Many communities have Facebook groups or local recommendations to help you find reliable options. An experienced Realtor® is a great resource for vendors like this since they are often using their services during inspection periods already!

8. Work with a Realtor® Who Understands Solo Buyers

Finding the right real estate agent makes all the difference. Choose someone who takes the time to understand your unique needs as a solo buyer.

It's important that they're asking a lot about you, rather than just talking themselves up. If they're not digging further into what certain factors mean to you then they may not get you to the root of what you’re really looking for.

Many of the first seven points listed should be something your Realtor® is discussing with you so they can best advise you and help you identify a home that meets those needs (and more!).

This is the approach I personally like to take in my own real estate practice—which is exactly what my client (and new friend!) Marti experienced, too!

This is a big purchase and it will require intentional care and attention to help you find a property that you'll feel comfortable in and excited to come home to. Depending on your circumstances it may require a customized strategy, so make sure your agent is really taking note to the things that will help make this as smooth as possible.

Relocating to Charlotte How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent for You

9. Stay Empowered During the Buying Process

It's easy to feel overwhelmed when dealing with inspections, contracts, and negotiations—but don't let anyone rush you into decisions. Hopefully your agent is outlining the next steps throughout the entire process. If not, it's perfectly okay to request a written list of upcoming timelines and expectations. Having a written notation to reference can provide relief amongst the overwhelm. Trust your instincts, take your time, ask questions, and don't feel pressured into settling for less than your dream home.

Pro tip: Stay empowered by remembering where you've been. Whether you're recently divorced and newly single or have been flying solo for some time, this is your journey and the next step toward your best life.

Buying your home as a single or independent woman isn't just possible—it's empowering! With careful planning, you can create a space that's all your own, reflecting your dreams, style, and independence.

If you're a single woman looking to buy a home and want a Realtor® who gets it, let's talk. I'd love to help you find your dream house in Charlotte, North Carolina or beyond!

To buying your dream home,

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About Me

I'm Jamie Milam, a determined AF woman who's embraced life after divorce by finding peace through self-awareness, intentional decision-making, and thrilling new travel adventures.

As a Realtor® in Charlotte, NC (and your connection to top agents nationwide), I’m passionate about guiding you through your homeownership and design goals—while also helping you create space for the things you love. My mission is to empower you to create a life of alignment too - at home, abroad, and within.

Whether it’s through real estate tips, home design inspiration, or solo travel experiences for divorced, independent women, I hope this space encourages you to discover deeper self-awareness and build a life that aligns with your passions and needs.

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Jamie Milam is a Realtor® in the Charlotte, NC area, licensed in both NC & SC, and has the ability to refer you to a number of agent partners across the nation, regardless of where you may live. She is an enthusiast for the power of awareness and believes it can be used in all facets of life to support aligned living.

**Disclosure** This post may contain affiliate links and they are at no additional cost to you, though I may earn a small commission. Don't worry, I only recommend products or services that I have tried or believe would be of great value to you! All opinions expressed are those of my own!