What to Look for When Buying a Home

Navigating the twists and turns on the path to homeownership is difficult. The best place to start when looking to purchase a home is to do some homework. This will help a prospective buyer make informed decisions and avoid any unpleasant or unexpected surprises.

 

Location Is Key

Several things matter when it comes to location. Needs vary from one prospective homeowner to another. Buyers should consider school districts, proximity to work, and the kind of neighborhood the home is in. Some people want a home that is near the kinds of social activities they like, and some want to be away from those activities.

 

Other location issues include potential nearby hazards. If there is water near the home, the future homeowner should consider whether flooding is a factor. Heavy brush or tree coverage might mean a risk of fire danger.

 

Character or Catastrophe?

Gauging a home’s true potential isn’t easy sometimes. A great home might be messy or have minor cosmetic issues. A structurally unsound home might seem beautiful and spotless. A crack could be minor settling, or it could be a dangerous sign of bigger foundational problems.

 

Some buyers want a fixer-upper. They don’t mind taking on a less than stellar floor or old cabinets. Others do not have the time, energy, or budget to deal with large home projects. Buyers should also check for wonky windows, uneven floors, and dampness or mold. These are costly ventures to address down the road.

 

Hidden Paperwork Figures

The devil is in the details. Both first-time buyers and seasoned homeowners ignore the paperwork that comes with a home at their peril. A home might look beautiful, but not having the right permits for past additions or improvements is not ideal. It’s also wise to read the contract thoroughly and realize that negotiation is part of the process.

 

Other important details a buyer should consider are potential homeowners’ association contracts and costs and inspection reports. An inspection will uncover issues that a buyer won’t see during a walk-through. If a prospective homeowner doesn’t take a hard look at the inspection, they could be in for a rude shock later.

 

Finding the Right Partner

A good Realtor is a strong partner that every homebuyer needs to help navigate all the ins and outs. Your Realtor will help you decide what you want most in a home and can steer you through the morass of paperwork. They will also know how to look for signs that the previous homeowner neglected the property. A Realtor will consider your needs and will help weed out homes that aren’t right, saving you a lot of time.

 

There are so many factors to consider, but the Realtor will help you to sort out what matters when it comes to your dream home. The experts at Blue Horizon Realty and Lending, INC., located in Escondido, California, will help you find the home that fits your personal needs and checks off all the right boxes.

 

To learn more about what to look for when buying a home, contact Blue Horizon Realty and Lending, INC. in Escondido, CA at (760) 237-4092 today!