When we house hunt, it’s easy to get swept up by what we think is the perfect house for our family. There’s no worse buyer’s remorse than that remorse one feels after purchasing the wrong property. A home is one of the largest investments you will make in your life, so make sure you are making the right choice. So, are you thinking of moving? Here are mistakes you can avoid before buying.
The Neighborhood
The neighborhood is perhaps the most important factor when choosing a home. How solid is it? Drive around the neighborhood at different times of the day. Make certain the neighborhood is not full of homes for sale. This may be an indication of other issues with the neighborhood. A rising crime rate or other factors that may bring down your property value such as impending building projects you may not be aware of.
Choose a neighborhood that enhances your life. How long is your commute to work or school? Consider how important it is for you and your family to be close to grocery stores, restaurants, public transportation, or hospitals, etc.
Take an evening to drive around the neighborhood when most of your neighbors would be home to get a better feel for the prospective property at all hours of the day.
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The Kitchen
We don’t have to convince you how important the kitchen is to a house. It is often referred to as “The Heart of the Home.” Families gather there daily, and during parties you can often find the best conversations happening there.
However, when you’re thinking of moving, stay focused and practical about this important room.
Make sure:
- the appliances work
- the water pressure is strong, as weak pressure may indicate other plumbing issues
- the countertops are in good condition
- the cabinets are sturdy and the cabinet doors open and close
The Rooms
Every family’s needs are different. If you have a large or growing family, or if you find your family entertains often, you will want to consider the size of the rooms in the house. We all have our unique space requirements, just remember to think of your family’s requirements before you make the move.
The flooring and walls should be sound and in good condition. Be sure you have the closet space your family requires throughout the house. Consider the natural lighting of hte house if this is important to you. Check for smoke detectors outside each bedroom, and on each floor.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are right up there with the kitchen when it comes to priorities. We spend a lot of time in our bathrooms. Here are some questions to ask yourself when looking to move into a new home:
- Do the toilets work?
- How is the water pressure?
- Is there an abundance of mold and mildew?
- Is the lighting sufficient?
- Is the exhaust fan in working order?
- Are the cabinets and flooring sound?
- Is there enough storage for bathroom neccessities and linens?
Major Systems
Before you sign, have all the home’s major systems inspected by a professional home inspector. Consider well-established home inspection companies with ASHI-certified inspectors.
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Plumbing
Low water pressure may be an indication of a larger, more costly issue in the future. Check pipes for leaks or rust, and make sure the all drains drain properly.
Electrical
Check to see if the home has ground wire, a safety feature in modern homes. Having no ground wire is common in older homes, just make sure it is sufficient for your families needs.
HVAC
HVAC systems can be a costly replacement. Look at the maintenence on the systems, make sure they are in working order and capable of blowing warm or cool air with no obstruction.
The Yard
Every family has their own ideas about the perfect size lot. Too large and you might spend your weekends maintaining trees and shrubs, and too small means you cannot entertain friends outdoors, or sink that pool you always dreamed of. Take your family’s interests into consideration when looking at buying a new home.