08/13/2021
When looking at places it can be easy to get distracted by the staging and aesthetics, but here are some key things to take a note of when looking at properties:
1. How old are the systems of the house?
(Heating system, hot water heater, HVAC, etc)
You will even want to ask how long it’s been since the roof has been replaced.
2. Does the house have Central AC or will I need to buy window AC units?
3. Is the house located in a flood zone?
4. Which appliances are included?
5. Where are the plot lines?
(How much of the land do I own and where are those barriers in relation to my neighbors)
6. Is there an easement on the property?
(Meaning, others have the right to access a part of your land for a specific purpose - for ex: your backyard could have an easement going to the river so neighbors use that easement in your backyard)
7. How is the community / neighborhood?
(Do you like the street the house is located on? Are there amenities close by to this house? How are the neighbors? How are the schools rated here? What’s the walkscore of this home? Etc.)
There are other things left out here that are pretty key so for BONUS tips:
8. Look at the house size
(Will it fit your family’s and your needs?)
9. Ask why the seller is leaving?
(Especially look into this if the house was RECENTLY sold, red flag. What’s the purpose of their move? You don’t want to buy a money pit)
10. Water Damage + Basement Flooding
(On ceilings if you see any discolored patches ask about the roof or any known pipe issues and in the basement, sometimes you will smell dampness, ask if there has been history of basement flooding)
Hope this helps, keep on the lookout when visiting places!
Follow along for more tips 🙂 🏡
