5 Factors to Keep in Mind While Viewing Homes
Before you buy a house, you’ll likely visit several options to find the one that best suits your needs. While every buyer's needs and wants will be different, certain factors are important for almost every home purchase. Here are some to remember as you start going on tours.
Important Considerations When Viewing Potential New Homes
1. Location
Before arriving at the house, pay attention to the neighborhood. Are there shops, schools, or parks within a convenient distance? Think about whether you want to be within walking distance of amenities or are okay with driving. Additionally, consider the potential commute to work and whether there are alternate routes in case of bad traffic or road closures. Some buyers also look at the availability of public transit. The neighborhood is something you cannot change, so be sure it works for your family's lifestyle.
2. Outdoor Space
Yard size is another factor that typically cannot change due to property lines, so spend some time outside and discuss whether the space is likely to work for your family. If you have kids or dogs, a large outdoor area that can be fenced off may be essential. However, if you prefer less maintenance, a smaller yard may be ideal. Think about the placement of trees on the property as well to ensure you're happy with the balance between safety and privacy.
3. Foundation and Exterior
A cracked foundation, leaky roof, or damaged siding can be expensive to fix, and these issues all lead to water damage and mold over time. Be wary of obvious cracks along the foundation, missing shingles, and visible mold along the roofline and around doors and windows. A home inspector can find subtle signs of damage and provide more details about the extent of the problem.
4. Layout
The layout of a home includes the number of rooms and how well the floorplan flows. Some families prefer open concept designs so people in different areas can still communicate. However, others prefer more separation, especially between the bedrooms and shared living spaces. It is sometimes possible to knock down or add walls, but these are large projects that require extensive engineering, so it’s beneficial to find a pre-existing layout that works for your needs.
5. Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Systems
The home’s essential systems make a major impact on its comfort, safety, and usability. All the equipment can be repaired or replaced by licensed professionals, but these upgrades tend to be costly. If you see leaky pipes or a worn-down furnace during the tour, factor these repair or replacement costs into your offer.
If you’re ready to buy a house, contact the professionals at REthink Luxury in Chattanooga, TN. The knowledgeable team focuses on creating a low-stress experience for buyers and building lasting relationships along the way. Visit the website to browse current listings, or call (423) 653-0705 and tell the team you’re ready to buy a house.
