Things to Look for When Buying a Home
Number of bedrooms.
Number of bathrooms.
An open concept living area.
A two-car Garage.
These are some of the obvious things to look for when buying a home. And while all those items are important, what about the not-so-obvious things?
Because those are important too.
Buying a home is a big commitment, and it’s a good idea to consider all the details before taking the plunge.
Apart from the obvious, here are 10 not-so-noticeable things to look for when buying a home.
1. Orientation of the House on the Lot
Whether the house faces north, south, east, or west might not seem like a big deal at the time, but the orientation of your home can greatly affect the overall lighting and temperature of the house. For example, a west-facing house will pick up the afternoon sun, which could be a good thing in cooler climates but a costly thing in warmer climates.
2. Overall Friendliness of the Neighborhood
This one may seem obvious, but have you really considered the neighborhood you are looking at? How close together are the houses? Is there ample backyard space? How is the school district and how close are the schools to the house? Are there any hidden HOA fees to think about? Think through all the details before making the commitment.
3. Zoning and Town Ordinance for Animals
Maybe you don’t want to keep chickens in your backyard at the moment, but would you ever want to sometime down the road? If so, be sure to check into the zoning and town ordinance for animals on the property. This may not be a deal breaker, but it’s definitely something to consider if you’re thinking about switching things up in the near future.
4. Roof Construction and Durability
The roof might look nice from the outside, but what’s it like underneath? On average roofs need to be replaced every 20-25 years, so chances are good that you’re in the clear if the home is fairly new. However, if the house is older, be sure to have the roof thoroughly inspected and ask the sellers when it was last replaced.
5. Strange Smells Coming from the House
Pay attention to the smells in the home, and watch out for musty smells in particular. If the kitchen or bathroom areas smell musty, it’s possible that mold might be present in the home. Also, if the house has an older sewage system, be sure to watch out for unpleasant smells, as this could indicate an issue – likely a blockage of some sort.
6. Presence of Mold or Water Damage
Check around the windows, doors corners, and of course the ceiling and floors for any sign of water damage. Also, look around these areas – and in the bathrooms and kitchen in particular – for any visible signs of mold. The presence of mold could indicate serious moisture or water damage issues in the home.
7. Easily Overlooked Kitchen Features
Stainless steel appliances and granite countertops are all well and good, but what about the easily overlooked kitchen features? For example, is the stove gas or electric? And how many burners? Also, be sure to consider the layout of the kitchen and make sure the space is workable for your current lifestyle.
8. Heating & Cooling Systems + Insulation
A well-insulated home can save you hundreds of dollars in heating and/or cooling expenses, so definitely be on the look out for this in a new house. Check the windows, door jams, and even venture up into the attic to check the insulation up there. Also, check out the heating and cooling systems themselves and make sure everything is in proper working order.
9. Natural Light, Windows, and Outdoor Space
Depending on the weather and the time of day that you first visit the house, you may not notice things like windows, natural light, and ample outdoor space, but those are things you’ll definitely notice down the road. So be sure to visit multiple times if possible to see the home at different times during the day to be sure the lighting and space will work for you.
10. Space that Will Work for Years to Come
Purchasing a home is definitely a big decision, and it’s often one that people will live with for years to come. With that being said, be sure to take a second look at the space and layout of the home and verify that it will work for you and your future needs, as best you can. Nothing is predictable, but if you’re planning to start a family make sure that there’s enough room for everyone.
Buying a Home Doesn’t Have to be Stressful
Buying a home can definitely be a challenge, but that doesn’t mean it can’t also be fun! Just be sure to consider all the options and the smallest details to be sure that you’ll be happy in your new home for years to come.
And of course, if you need help or are looking for a realtor in the Southlake area to partner up with, I’d be more than happy to help! Just give me a call at 972-971-6901 or email at donnajsellsluxury@gmail.com and I’ll be in touch with you right away. I’m excited to help you along your real estate journey!
