THE DO'S AND DONT'S OF HOUSE SHOPPING
House hunting can be somewhat of a challenge! Buying a house is a huge investment - likely one of the biggest investments (if not the biggest) that you will ever make.
As your search takes you from one house or condo to another there will be some factors to look past and other details not to ignore. Here is a list of my top features to keep on the “must-have” list as well as some items to look past in order to find the house of your dreams!
DEAL BREAKERS
The Location- This is important for so many reasons and something that you will not be able to change in the future. Once purchased, you cannot change your home's location! When you are house hunting, consider any potential home's proximity to your daily activities, the charm of the neighborhood, traffic trends and access to parks, shopping, schools, and public transportation.
The Floor Plan (and Size)- Think about how the home's space will be used and whether it will accommodate both your current and future lifestyles and plans.
Considerable Issues- It is common to get so wrapped-up in a house that you become willing to ignore significant problems, like a roof that leaks or foundation problems – issues that could become very costly to repair in the future. If your home inspection uncovers considerable problems, it is important to negotiate with the seller to come to an agreement that works for both of you!
THINGS TO LOOK PAST
Curb Appeal- If you are not saying "Wow!" when you first drive up, that is okay. A different colored front door, new (or tamed) landscaping and a fresh coat of paint to the exterior stucco or siding are all easy ways to change this factor.
Clutter- While I always advise my selling clients to clean their homes prior to a viewing, often you will see items that will distract you such as dishes in the sink and clothes or toys left out. Do not let the mess distract you! Once the clutter is cleaned up, you might be surprised at the actual functionality of the space.
Paint or Wallpaper- You might not be too fond of the color on a wall or the wallpaper covering a certain room of the house you are looking at. But it is important to remember that this is a very changeable element of the home. This is one of the easiest things to change and has one of the biggest impacts to change the feel of the room. My favorite go-to color currently is “Light French Grey” by Sherwin Williams.
Flooring- If you do not like the floor you are standing on, do not let it stop you. Carpet and flooring are an easy fix and, just like changing paint and wallpaper, will have a huge impact on your new home. There are countless low-cost options for flooring today, and it does not need be expensive to replace the current floor with one that is more modern and suits your style.
Seller’s Presence- In most cases, the house you are looking at is occupied by the seller. Therefore, it is not uncommon to feel their presence in various aspects of the home. Decor, artwork and furniture may clash with your personal style; however, it is important to remember that all these items will be gone on possession day so that you can put your own style into the home to make it your own!
These items are all fixable flaws and easy to change when it comes to purchasing a home, if you can look past them you could end up with a great home to make your own!
Good luck on your home shopping! As always If you are looking for a realtor to help on your journey I would love to chat!
