Did you know that in 2019, buyers spend three days fewer in house hunting than a year before?
You’re probably familiar with the saying, “You don’t know what you don’t know.” And that’s especially true when it comes to house hunting. Most people only spend a few hours looking at houses before they make an offer. That’s not enough time to get to know a property.
But don’t worry. Keep reading because we’ve put together this guide on everything you need to look for when house hunting. With this information, you’ll be able to find the perfect property for your needs and budget.
What Should You Do Before House Hunting?
Before you even begin to look for your dream home, there are a few things you should do. Let’s look at them now:
Establish a Budget
Before you start house hunting, it is important to establish an accurate budget of how much you can afford. This will help narrow down what kind of property you should be looking for and ensure that you don’t stretch yourself too thin when it comes to financing the purchase.
Get Pre-approved
The best way to show potential sellers that you are a serious buyer is to get pre-approved by a lender. This will make it much easier for you to obtain financing as the lender will have already done the due diligence and determined that you’re eligible for a loan.
Research Neighborhoods
It is important to do your due diligence to ensure that the neighborhood you are looking at fits your needs. Research crime rates, school ratings, and the overall state of the local job market to get a better idea of whether or not the area would be suitable for you.
Make a List of Must-Haves
Think about what features you want in your new home and make a list of them. This will help ensure that you don’t overlook any important details when it comes to considering different properties.
What to Look for When House Hunting
Once you have found some properties that meet your criteria, it is time to start taking a closer look. Here are some things to consider when house hunting:
Location
When looking at potential houses, make sure the neighborhood is desirable and safe. Consider how far away it is from work or school, and if there is access to public transportation. It is also important to research the area’s plans, such as upcoming development projects or major roads that could impact your daily life.
Layout and Size
One of the most important factors to remember is the size and layout of the house. You’ll want to make sure that the house is large enough to comfortably accommodate your family and all your belongings. But you should also consider the layout of the rooms and whether or not it will suit your needs.
For instance, if you entertain often, you’ll want to make sure that the floor plan allows for easy flow between rooms. Additionally, natural light is an important consideration in any home, so be sure to check that the windows are adequate and that there aren’t any dark corners that would make the space feel cramped.
By taking all these buying process factors into account, you can be sure to find a home that will suit your needs perfectly.
Condition of Property
Pay close attention to the condition of the property you’re considering. Looking for signs of wear and tear like cracks, watermarks or other defects will help you determine the property’s condition. It is also important to check for signs of pests, such as termites or ants, and if any of the systems need to be inspected or updated.
The last thing you want is to buy a property that needs major repairs or renovations, so it’s important to do your due diligence upfront. If you do find any issues with the property, be sure to factor those costs into your offer.
With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect property that will be a sound investment for years to come.
Age and History
When considering purchasing an older home, it is essential to research its age and history. This will help you better understand the property and any necessary repairs or maintenance that may need to be done.
Additionally, knowing the age of the home will give you a better idea of the possible presence of environmental hazards like asbestos or lead paint. If the house has been around for several decades, it is also important to research its historical significance.
This can help you understand the property’s value, as well as any restrictions that may be placed on alterations or renovations. Ultimately, taking the time to research the age and history of an older home can help you make a more informed decision about whether or not to purchase it.
The Neighborhood
The first thing you notice about the neighborhood is the smell of freshly baked bread from the bakery on the corner. You follow your nose and find yourself in front of a cozy little shop with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The shelves are stocked with all sorts of delicious-looking pastries and bread, and there’s a tempting display of cookies upfront. You can’t resist buying a couple of treats to take home with you.
As you continue exploring, you stumble upon a charming little park. The sun is shining and there’s a light breeze, so you decide to sit down on a bench and enjoy the view for a while.
The park is well-maintained and there’s a playground nearby, making it the perfect place for families to come and relax. You can see why this neighborhood is such a popular place to live.
The Home’s Curb Appeal
The first thing someone who is looking to buy a house will see when they pull up to your home is the curb appeal. This first impression can make or break a sale, so it’s important to take a close look at the exterior of your home and make any necessary changes.
Start by assessing the condition of your landscaping. Is the lawn well-manicured? Are the flower beds free of weeds? Are the trees and shrubs trimmed and healthy? Next, take a look at the paint color, roof, and windows. Does the paint look fresh and inviting?
Is the roof in good condition? Do the windows need to be replaced? Finally, make sure the house has proper insulation and siding. In addition to making your home more energy-efficient, these updates can also increase its value.
By taking the time to improve your home’s curb appeal, you’ll be more likely to attract buyers and get top dollar for your home.
The Bedrooms and Bathrooms
The bedrooms and bathrooms are two of the most important rooms in any home. They are where we start and end our day, so they must be both functional and comfortable.
When inspecting the bedrooms and bathrooms, pay close attention to the level of wear and tear on fixtures, the amount of clutter, and whether there is adequate storage space. Also, make sure that the plumbing is in good working order and that there is enough natural light in each room.
By taking the time to assess these key areas, you can be sure that you will be happy with your new home for years to come.
The Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in any home. Not only is it where we prepare meals, but it’s also often the gathering place for family and friends. When considering a new home, it’s important to take a close look at the kitchen to make sure it meets all of your needs.
First, you’ll want to make sure there is adequate ventilation. No one wants to cook in a stuffy kitchen! Then, take a look at the countertop space. Is there enough room to prep meals? Are there enough cabinets and drawers for all of your pots, pans, and other cooking tools?
Finally, consider the layout of the room. Can you move around easily? Is there enough space for a table and chairs? If not, you may want to consider renovating the kitchen to create more space. By taking the time to evaluate the kitchen, you can be sure you’re making the best decision for your home.
The Closets and Storage Areas
One important thing to consider when looking for a new home is the closets and storage areas. You’ll want to make sure there is enough space to store all of your belongings, and that the shelves and cabinets are in good condition.
Additionally, you may want to look for homes with built-in shelving or cabinets in the closets and storage areas. Having extra storage space can be extremely helpful, and it may be something you want to take into consideration when searching for a new home.
The Windows and Lighting
The windows and lighting play an important role in how your home feels. Not only do they affect the overall look of your home, but they also impact your energy costs. Make sure all the windows are in good condition, that they open and close properly, and that there is enough natural light coming in.
Also, evaluate the overall illumination of the home to ensure that it is not too dark or too bright. The right level of lighting can help you save on energy costs and create a more comfortable environment in your home.
The Yard and Exterior
The first impression potential homebuyers will have of a property is often based on its curb appeal. As such, it is important to take some time to inspect the yard and exterior of the house before putting it on the market.
Look for any signs of pest infestations, such as holes in the foliage or damaged wood, and be sure to address these issues promptly. Check the fencing to make sure it is in good repair, and consider whether any additional landscaping needs to be done to make the property more appealing.
Finally, be sure that there is enough outdoor space for activities such as entertaining or gardening. By taking care of these details, you can maximize your chances of making a successful sale.
The Finishing Touches
Once you’ve sorted out the major issues, it’s time to focus on the details. Take a close look at the walls, ceilings, and floors to check for any cosmetic damage. If you spot any mold, mildew, or cracks, make a note of them so you can address them before moving in.
Also, take a look at the wallpaper to see if it’s in good condition. If it’s peeling or damaged in any way, you’ll want to either have it repaired or replaced before you move in. Finally, take a step back and evaluate the overall space. Is there enough room to hang artwork or decorate the walls?
If not, you may want to consider finding a different property that better suits your needs. With these finishing touches in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect home for you and your family.
Are You Currently House Hunting and Need to Sell Your Current Home?
Want help with your house hunting process? Are you struggling to sell your current home? Wouldn’t it be nice to avoid realtor fees and months of haggling with potential buyers?
We can help. We Buy Houses Memphis specializes in serving homeowners by providing fair offers for their houses. We are cash home buyers who got into the business to help homeowners, not take advantage of them.
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