I guess it depends on what you consider "must haves" and what's in your budget. I'm actually on the verge of buying my first starter home. A lot of the must haves listed here is a little out of my price range. So I didn't go with the steel appliances or the granite. I went hardwood and tile (no lino anywhere in the house), bonus room, and upgraded ensuite bathroom. It comes standard with the fireplace already, so I didn't have to worry about that at least. I would like to have other stuff, but it's just not in my budget.
I guess things like gararators, wiring, etc, are details to be worked out afterwards, but I'm budgeting another 3K for all that stuff.
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