You need a buying checklist to keep you focused
What should I look for when viewing a home?
You pull up to the curb and there it is – the home of your dreams. Calm down. Take a deep breath and reset your emotions. I do understand the flutters. The hardest thing to do when you feel as though your dream home is right in front of you is to be objective. It’s easy to fall in love with a home’s appearance, but it’s crucial you look beyond curb appeal.
Here are a few things I’d like you to notice while you’re looking at houses:
General upkeep
Of course, first appearances count. Is the inside home dirty and cluttered, are there off-putting odors? Is lawn and landscape overgrown? Is paint chipping? These items can be overcome, but it begs the question, if these initial items are overlooked what about the not so noticeable?
Water leaks
Water can do a lot of damage to a home. It rots wood, undermines foundations, and causes mold and mildew. Take a look at the roof from ground level- notice anything? Have a look in the basement- any wet smells or standing water? If you spot stains, bulges in paint or at drywall seams, you see other signs of water damage on ceilings or walls, make note that there could be a problem. Have your home inspector investigate further.
Appliances and fixtures
Test the lights, faucets, toilets, furnace, air conditioning, as well as all appliances included in the sale. Make sure everything is working. Make note of what’s not.
Floors
Floors should be smooth, even, and solid. Soft, springy sections, excessive squeaking (older properties may be noisier, this is often normal), and unevenness are all indications that expensive repairs could be needed. Make notes and have your home inspector investigate further.
Doors and windows
Check that doors and windows fit snugly and operate smoothly. How are the locks? Do they operate with ease, is there any damage? Look for flaked paint and loose caulking. Check for drafts. Are screens and storm windows included?
Drainage Walk around the yard looking for areas where water might collect. Soggy areas near the foundation indicate poor drainage. Do the downspouts have splashblocks or water diverters? Make notes and have your home inspector investigate further.
Grout and Caulking
Check tiles for any loose, broken, or missing pieces. Check grout between tub and tile. Do you see mold or stains that could indicate a water issue?
Structural
Look for cracks in the foundations or loose mortar and bricks. Check around windows and doors for “stepping.”
Furnishings
Will your furniture fit inside the rooms of this house. Be sure to bring a measuring tape. Rooms and current furniture arrangement can be deceptive.
Storage space
Make sure your new house has enough storage space for all your belongings. Storage for more than just your clothes. Think of all the things that need to find a home – tools, gardening equipment, old toys, sports equipment, and all those wedding presents that are still in their original boxes. Check the size of the closets, the attic, the basement and the garage. There is never enough storage space. Be realistic about whether this house fits your storage needs or falls short.
Inspection
You should give serious consideration to a property before you decide to put in an offer for purchase. Really work hard at spotting the flaws, not just noticing all the pretty features you may not need or ever use. Nothing can replace the expert opinion of a qualified home inspector. Inspectors spot problems the average person would never find. I recommend having a contractor give you actual repair estimates if you are seriously pursuing a property that needs repair. Do not rely on anyone’s guesstimate. In most situations, a home inspection is required by your lender AFTER you’ve placed an offer of purchase and is considered a contingency to overcome before going forward with a contract.
Questions? Call me @ (615) 977-8444 or email whereyoulivetn@gmail.com
Read Step 3 to Buy a House: How do you find it?