A lot of people work long and hard before they can get the money that they need to be able to afford a house or at least a downpayment for a loan. That's why when the time has come to pick out that house that they worked for, people often rush into decisions.
While it can't be helped, this can usually make room for regrets in the future. That's why it's best for you to know what you should be looking for in a home before you go end up getting swayed by your realtor. One of the best ways to do is to make a list of things that you need to look out for a while viewing a property.
Maintenance Costs
One of the common regrets of property buyers is that the maintenance, as well as other costs, adds up to be more expensive than expected. While most people can immediately overlook potential repairs that can rob them in the future, experts of the trade can spot them. Hiring a home inspector might not be cheap. But if you don't want any repair problems that could put a strain on your budget, professional help might be your best bet.
Size of the Home
Realtors need you to buy the house that they're selling. That's why some go through the effort of staging a home. This can make a home look bigger, more spacious, depending on how they design it. Although these staged homes may look nice, they can also be quite deceiving at times.
Also, bear in mind that the bigger the home you buy, the higher the chance for a big electricity bill. But if you're okay with that or have energy-efficient appliances, then go for it.
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Health and Environmental Hazards
Sometimes, in our effort to beat the competition, we overlook issues that could potentially jeopardize our health. It is essential that we know if such issues exist before you close on any home. Some health hazards that need to be uncovered include asbestos, radon, carbon monoxide, lead paint, and mold. While they don't necessarily have to be dealbreakers, it is important that you know they exist so you can work with the seller to have it fixed.
Location, Location, Location
If you're looking at a house in a brand new neighborhood, you should always open that up with your realtor. If you get too excited about the home, you may forget to ask all the right questions, including this one.
Ask your realtor questions about the neighborhood. Don't just ask how far the school is or how far away the grocery is. Try to find out if crimes happen often. Also, try asking where the nearest police station and a hospital is. If you have pets, ask around vet clinics as well.
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