Take the time to learn about real estate contracts and mortgage terms before you look at any homes. Figure monthly payments to determine how much you can spend on a home. Don’t even look at homes that cost more than your spending limit. Repairs are expensive so if the house needs work, figure that into your budget.
So check out that house from top to bottom and investigate the neighborhood. However, you must be aware that the more upscale the neighborhood, the pricier the house will be. So if you fall in love with the house at first sight on site, buy it; before you do, rate the house according to: need repairs, repaired, and brand-new.
If it needs repairs, check out the extent of repairs needed and how much it will cost. Armed with the information you can always ask for a lower price or if the cost of the repairs is beyond your present budget for your mortgage, skip it. As for the repaired houses, always check the basement. A damp basement will show water stains on the floor and walls and give off a musty smell. Molds might be lurking on the walls and ceilings and will need professional help to remove safely.
In the kitchen, check how many appliances are there to estimate if your appliances can fit in without additional outlets; check the floor, is it level or does it shake? Inspect the floor for stain — can these be removed with the usual cleaning mop and cleansers? If the sink top is marble, examine if it needs to be re-polished. Inspect the plumbing. Are there leaks? How about the tap water? Does it run well or drips?
Next to the kitchen, the bathroom is the most expensive room to remodel. Is the bathtub and shower clean and in good repair? How old is the hot water heater? What about the sink and toilet? Any cracks or discoloration? Have the home inspected by a professional who can check the plumbing and electrical systems.
Examine the attic carefully. Make sure it is well insulated so that you won’t lose heat from your home. Look for any signs of leaks. Sometimes even roofs that appear to be in good shape have leaks that can be expensive to fix. What sort of ventilation does that attic have? Look at the exterior and check the maintenance. Count the windows and doors.
If you are seriously considering a house, walk around the neighborhood in the evening when people are home. Is this a neighborhood of young families or retirees? Will you be comfortable living among these neighbors? Try to see the house in the rain. Problems that weren’t apparent before may show up when it rains. If everything checks out and the house is within your budget, now is the time to make your offer.
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