5 things to consider when looking at houses on sale

5 things to consider when looking at houses on sale

So you’ve been flirting with the idea of buying a new house. Be it moving from your parent’s house or the place you’ve called home for a while, this is no easy investment to make for a first-time home buyer or frequent buyer. It’s important to prioritize your needs to help you navigate the complex process of home buying. By compiling a list of features that are important to you and your family, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the best home that suits your needs.

We’ve come up with 5 essential things to consider when searching for a dream home on sale.

Buy in the right area

A good location can mean different things to different people and figuring out which neighbourhood you want to move to is a personal choice. There are, however, factors that can influence your choice of location. Everyone appreciates convenience and accessibility. Consider the amenities closest to the location of your potential homes such as the shopping centres, school district and the commute to and from work.

Falling in love with the ideal house isn’t enough. The area surrounding the house mustn’t be ignored. Examine the area around it for things that may seem inconsequential at the time, such as shared driveways with the next property.

Stick to your budget

It’s okay to be ambitious, but being realistic will save you a lot of time and money. Try not to spend too much time looking at property that’s way above what you can afford. This can generally cause frustration and may slow down the overall search for a suitable property. It’s therefore important to have a budget and work within it. By identifying and separating your actual needs from non-essential needs, you can focus on searching for the right property within your price range.

By doing your research on your preferred neighbourhoods, it’s important to get knowledge of the general selling prices for that area so that you make a realistic offer which can be accepted.

We know investing in a property can be a hard decision, that’s why we wrote a blog about the 10 tips to consider when investing in property.

Look out for Hidden defects

When you step inside your potential home, focus on the structural stuff. A seller is going above and beyond to make that first viewing memorable for you. Look beyond the fresh coat of paint or upscale décor.

Don’t forget to open and close windows and doors to check the state of shelving, flooring, plumbing and general functionality. This can give you a great insight into what work may need to be done on the house before or even after you move in.

The number of bedrooms

Each home buyer will have a general idea of how many bedrooms they would like. Most people will want at least two, and in the case there are children or you look forward to expanding your family in the future, the number increases. A separate or designated guestroom would be an incentive, particularly if you have regular visitors for any length of time.

Having an extra bedroom can help you set up a number of options to accommodate the need at that time. You can transform it into that home office you’ve been thinking about, kids’ playroom or an exercise room. Many hobbies can require working space and storage for supplies, and an extra bedroom serves this purpose well. Think carefully about your lifestyle and what will enhance it.

Ultimately, your home is your castle and is where you will entertain guests, sleep and raise a family. Don’t buy something that’s too small as nothing is more frustrating than a lack of space. Find a home that fulfils your needs.

Future Development

Don’t just focus on the present amenities that are available, but future plans for schools, hospitals and other public infrastructure can improve property values in the neighbourhood. So keep in mind when you’re shopping for a house, whether any new public or commercial developments are in the works and how they can impact your property value.

When a seller rejects your offer, don’t get disheartened and think you’ve failed to buy your ideal home. You can increase your offer if you can afford to, or walk away and search for something else that suits your needs. Put in the time and effort to look for the ideal next home for you and your family and weigh up all factors before making a decision to submit an offer. Engage a realtor at MMR and get their support and insight to guide you along the way.

Additional Things To Consider:

Property Resale Value

Considering the Resale Value is another crucial factor when purchasing a house. While you might be buying a home to live in for the foreseeable future, circumstances can change and you may decide to sell in the future. Factors that can influence a property’s resale value include:

  • Location: This is a paramount factor. Houses in safe, desirable neighborhoods with good schools and amenities like parks and shopping will always hold their value better than properties in less desirable areas.
  • Property Condition: A property that’s in good shape will sell for more than a similar property that’s run down. Regular maintenance and updates can help maintain the property’s value.
  • Market Conditions: The housing market fluctuates based on a variety of factors, such as the economy, interest rates, and supply and demand. Timing can have a significant impact on the resale value.
  • Size and Layout: Generally, larger homes with more bedrooms and bathrooms will have better resale value. However, the layout and usability of the space is equally important.
  • Updates and Upgrades: Modern updates and upgrades, such as energy-efficient appliances or a renovated kitchen, can increase a home’s resale value.

Remember, a home is not just a place to live, but an investment. Consider the future potential resale value when making your purchase to safeguard your investment.

Home Inspection and Maintenance

A professional Home Inspection is an indispensable aspect of the house-buying process that shouldn’t be overlooked. This evaluation, conducted by a certified home inspector, provides a detailed review of the property’s condition. It offers insights into potential problems, from the condition of the roof and the integrity of the foundation to the functionality of the HVAC system, plumbing, and electrical systems. The inspection can reveal hidden issues that may not be immediately apparent, including issues within walls, under flooring, or in areas of the home that may not be readily accessible. 

A thorough home inspection can save you from costly repairs down the line, make you aware of safety concerns, and give you leverage in negotiations if defects are discovered. Remember, the initial cost of the home inspection is nothing compared to the peace of mind it can provide, and the potential cost savings in the long run. A well-informed decision is always a wise decision, especially when it comes to significant investments such as purchasing a home.

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