Buying a house is important. Unless you’re a mortgage or real estate professional, it’s likely that you have more than a few questions about the process. At CalStar Mortgage Inc., we love not only helping clients find financing, but also educating them about the process so they can feel confident in their choices. In this week’s blog, we’ll describe certain things to look for when buying a house – good and bad – that you may not have considered previously. Read on to check out some home buying red flags and other signs and contact us when you’re ready to talk. We offer free quotes and consultations at our office in La Cañada Flintridge.
We don’t expect that our clients will be able to catch every potential problem, even armed with a checklist. You can use these as jumping off points to discuss with the seller and real estate agent. This is not a comprehensive list; please visit our blog in the future for more tips on what to look for when buying a home. You should enlist also the services of an inspector, but that doesn’t replace the need for you to personally inspect the house, as well.
Evaluate the Structure
A house is nothing without a solid foundation. One of the first things to look for when buying a home is the structural aspects of a property. That means the literal foundation of the home, as well as the floors, walls, and roof. Look past any paint jobs or flooring that may be disguising cracks, water damage, or any areas that look unstable or uneven.
Consider the Whole Property
In addition to looking at the actual structure of a prospective home, consider the lot on which it rests, too. Consider any renovations you might want to make, how much time (or money) gardening will take, and more serious concerns like if the area is prone to wildfires or flooding.
Check the Plumbing
When the plumbing in a home works as it should, you rarely consider it. When you’re looking at houses that you might want to live in, take time to ask about and look at the plumbing. Use your eyes to check everywhere for any signs of water damage or mold. Ask about when the pipes, water heater and other equipment were installed.
Ask About Insulation
Insulation not only helps maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, it also saves you big time on heating and cooling bills. Of course, you can’t rip open the walls to check insulation, but you can ask what type of insulation is installed and when. Ask to look in the attic, if possible, and look in any unfinished areas where you can look with your eyes.
Look at the Details
Turn on every light switch and every faucet, look in every nook and cranny, and ask questions at every step when you walk through a home. It’s easy to get caught up in the general vibe of a room, but it is important to look shrewdly at every detail. This is a great way not only to identify any potential problems (like an electrical issue), but also to make sure a home checks your short list. Even if you love a room, be sure to note if, for example, it has no storage space and remember that when considering you and your family’s needs.
Don’t Get Discouraged
It may feel like a lot of weight on your shoulders to meticulously inspect each home you visit but remember: This is a house that will become your home for a long time. It’s important that you not only get a great feeling when you view it, but also that you remember these things to look for when buying a home. Contact CalStar Mortgage Inc. in La Cañada Flintridge if and when you have more questions and to get preapproved, so you can view homes only in your price range.
