WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN VIEWING YOUR PROSPECTIVE NEW HOME
Whether you’re attending an Open House or going to a Showing with your Realtor, here are our top recommendations of what to look for when you’re viewing the house.
1. MAINTENANCE OF THE HOUSE
a. Take a close look for water damage: brown lines across the walls or ceiling are an indicator. If the house has a basement it’s important to make sure that the floors and walls aren’t wet (especially after it’s rained). It’s also important to pay attention to what your nose is telling you. If a room smells musty it may be indicative of mold or mildew.
b. Issues with the foundation. Real Estate site Trulia recommends looking for misaligned or sticking doors and windows, and sloping stairs or floors as signs that the house might not be solidly anchored. Realtor.com points out that most houses have hairline cracks in the foundation it’s the presence of large gaps that you should be wary of.
c. Check for mold. Look in the cabinets under the kitchen and bathroom sinks. If you see black or gray spots along the back wall this may suggest the presence of mold. The same is true around the caulking on the bathtub.
d. Check the water pressure. Run the faucets full blast, flush the toilets! Poor water pressure could suggest an underlying problem with the house’s pipes.
2. ASPECTS OF THE HOUSE
a. Plan for the future. Staircases aren’t a big deal when we’re younger and healthier but if this is a house that you plan on living in for the duration it’s important to be mindful about the ease in which you’ll be able to get upstairs or into the basement as you get older.
b. Storage, Storage, Storage! Older homes especially don’t have as many closets and the closets they do have are very small. Is there a pantry in the kitchen, enough cabinets and drawers? Stop and think, does your potential dream home have the storage space you’ll need?
3. THE NEIGHBORHOOD
a. Walk the neighborhood. Pay attention to how nearby properties are maintained. How close are the neighbors. Make a note of if they have pets. We love pets, too, but barking dogs can leave something to be desired. It’s important to check out the neighborhood on different days and times of the week – especially on weekends – to get a feel for it. Will it be too loud or, just right?
b. Drive around town. If you are unfamiliar with the town or area, take a drive to locate some important necessities…shopping, medical facilities, access to major highways, schools, parks and recreational facilities.
The bottom-line …. We know how important a decision purchasing a home can be. Let our Realtors guide you through the process. We will talk to you about what you’re looking for in a home and will be there every step of the way. From showings to closings, our experienced Realtors are here for you. Contact us today!