Avoiding Regret As A Buyer

By Kaci Cooper, 23 Jan 19:13

No matter how much foresight you have, there is almost always a moment, after you have moved into your new house, where you realize something you had never noticed before. It might be a plug that does not work or it might be that you need to replace the pipes in the guest bathroom because for some reason, no matter what you try, the sink still fills up with water.

No matter how hard you try, it is nearly impossible to inspect every aspect of a home before you buy it. Therefore it is all the more important to approach house hunting with open eyes to minimize surprises. Also, take experience for what it is worth. Even if your first experience leaves certain areas to be desire, the next time you will have learned from your previous oversight.

Until you have built up such experience, take the following into consideration to help avoid regret:

Exterior Issues
-Make sure that you take note of how your new home looks during the day and at nighttime, as well as how it holds up through sunny days and rainy days
-Be aware of any slopes around your house that might cause water runoff
-Take into consideration trees and other factors that will influence heating and lighting
-Examine the roof, siding and gutters for age and deterioration
-Remember to be aware of what you will have to do with landscaping as far as maintenance is concerned

Interior Issues
-Does the layout leave anything to be desired? (For example, can you hear your kids if they are up in the middle of the night?)
-Is the foundation solid? Does the basement exhibit any moisture? Are crawl spaces appropriately covered and debris free?
-Is the insulation applicable to the area you live in, as well as for changes in temperature between summer and winter?
-Does the electrical power suit your needs?
-Is there enough space for your furnishings?
-Do the rooms get enough natural light?
-Do the doors and windows work as they should, are the locks on the doors and windows in working order?

Finally, if you do think that you have the perfect home, make sure that you have the home inspected before you buy it. Not only will this allow you to cover all of your bases, but you will also be able to plan any repairs that you will need to make.

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