Looking at our first round of homes on Saturday! 🎉

Your inspector is protected from everything and responsible for nothing. He can say theres a foundation while the house is floating and still be owed his fee free and clear.

How fun! Your agent should be guiding through this during the showings BUT things I either tell buyers to look for or think about and things I share

– Cosmetics can be changed! Location and noise cannot.

– while inspectors will check these things, it’s wise to see ages of main items: hvac, water heater and roof

– anticipate your future! Think longevity.
Do you need space for visitors or any future children, whether planned or not planned. (I had a client with 2 kids already and was encouraging them to expand for a smidge more space…. And shortly after they had a 3rd)

– if you have an HOA, review the HOA docs. Specifically assessments and how much HOA dues can be increased per year. Is there a max??

– know the taxes: is it city and county or just county

– always remember why you’re buying a house! While it will never be perfect, don’t settle either! Remember your why and don’t divert away from it.

– ask about utility costs (there’s a water company in my area substantially more than another area)

– think about day to day life…. Pantry size, laundry room location, stairs, bedroom layouts (master on main, split bedroom floor plans etc) garages and bringing in groceries, overflow parking

– Avoid being at your absolute max budget if you can. You have to factor in taxes, that can go up. Same for utilities and internet. Unknown expenses will always come up, not a matter of IF but a matter of WHEN.

– contrary to that, do not get something that could potentially be a burden, such as a large fixer upper. (HVAC, soft floors, roofs, rotting wood, water heaters and appliances) unless you know you can do stuff or have funds to have it fixed.

– if you like a house: take a look at it at night (is there good lighting, what’s the access like, understand the general traffic around during high traffic times, get a feel for your neighbors

– maybe repetitive: House shopping can be very fun, but depending on markets can also be very exhausting and daunting. Don’t lose sight of it. Patience is a virtue.

I’m sure I’m missing more but I think those are great things to think about!

Edit to add:
– if furnished, mentally remove furniture and think of your furniture! Do not get blindsided by decor!! Same with placement of furniture! I come across a lot of spaces that can only be set up in particular ways.