5 Things to Look for When Shopping for a Home

What are 5 Things to Keep an Eye on When Shopping for a House?

Purchasing a house can be a huge task with a lot of twists and turns. Aside from meeting the total cost of buying a home, make sure to find a place that you’re happy with in all respects. While the criteria for a “good house” can vary from person to person, there are likely a few different boxes that you want to check when you’re trying to find your dream home. 

If you’re in the market for a move, here are the top 5 things to keep an eye on when shopping for a home:

The Exterior of the House

The exterior of a home is typically one of the most important factors a homebuyer will think about. After all, it’s the first thing they see when they look at the house! From the initial Zillow hunt to the first open house, the exterior is a powerful selling point. Although home inspections can determine the home’s condition on a deeper level, verifying the house on your own is still important so that you don’t waste time in a hot market.

When you do visit the home for an open house, take the time to make sure that the house is clear of any noticeable damages on the outside walls, like cracks, mold, or peeling paint. Also, take a look at the overall foundation: is it sturdy? Do the walls have any signs of water intrusion?

Lastly, look at the roof to see if it doesn’t have any cracks or damage. Make sure the roof is made with solid roofing materials and doesn’t have signs of breaking down. However, a trained professional should observe it since it can be dangerous to inspect on your own.

The Size of the House

Before buying a home, determine the ideal size for your needs. Consider your family size and lifestyle when deciding how much space you’ll need. If you have a family, a larger home with a spacious living room might be a good option. If you’re living alone, a smaller home might be more suitable.

Keep in mind that each house size has its pros and cons, but ultimately, it should fit your personal needs and preferences. Look at different houses to compare their sizes and find the one that’s convenient for you. 

The Bedrooms and Bathrooms

Another important factor to consider when buying a home is the available bedrooms. If you have a family, you should see if the house has enough bedrooms to fit everyone – although depending on your financial situation and the area you are planning to move to, you may need to compromise.

When evaluating bedrooms (and other rooms in the house), consider the layout and whether it suits your family’s needs in the present and future. Check for closets, windows, and electrical outlets for electronics and appliances. Are there enough windows for the amount of natural light that you want? Is there only one outlet in a room that you plan to work in? Keep those questions in mind when you’re touring new homes.

An even more essential room to think about during your home search is the bathroom. While your home inspector will make sure that this room is clear of leaks or water damage and has no plumbing issues, there are a few questions that you should ask yourself ahead of time. Are there enough sinks for you and your partner? Will the space between the toilet and the wall be an issue? Are you going to be annoyed if there isn’t enough room to store your hot tools for your hair? While you can make adjustments when you renovate the bathroom, think about how realistic it will be to live there and use that space. 

The House’s Heating and Cooling System

When you’re shopping around for a new home, make sure that the house has both a heating and cooling system that you prefer to work with as a homeowner. Do you want central air conditioning around the house? Would you rather have a furnace that’s powered by gas rather than electricity? If you want a different system after you sign your mortgage contract, you must consider the total cost of the renovation. It can cost up to $10,000 to put a new system in your home! If you can’t handle an older house without A/C, then you should only consider newer models if you aren’t willing to splurge on a new cooling system. 

The Neighborhood, Schools, and Community

Another factor to think about when purchasing a home is the area around your home because you can’t change the neighborhood, school, or community after you purchase a home. For example, if you move to an area with a lot of crime, you may love your home, but not the neighborhood around it. Before you sign a mortgage agreement, it’s important to do your research or trust your Realtor’s knowledge about the area. Make sure that you are a fan of the community and the available schools if you are planning on starting a family!

Use a Realtor to Shop for a Home This Year

Purchasing a home can be a complex and overwhelming process, but by implementing these five key strategies, you can simplify your home-buying journey and increase your chances of finding the perfect property. Remember, these strategies are just a starting point, and the guidance of a knowledgeable real estate professional can be invaluable.

If you’re ready to start your home search or have any questions about the home-buying process, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced Realtor. They can provide you with personalized advice, help you navigate the market, and ensure that you find a home that meets your needs and budget.

Contact Realtor Linda Moore today for expert assistance in finding your dream home!

Remember, buying a home is a significant investment, and having a trusted professional by your side can make all the difference.