5 Things I Wish Homeowners Knew Before They Bought a House

 

Whether this is your first time buying a home or your 10th time, there are just some things I wish every homebuyer would recognize, know or understand about the home buying process. However, most homeowners don't take enough time to research buying a house before they find the house they love and jump into the real estate contract. Sometimes buying a home is such a knee-jerk reaction that they don't stop, evaluate, and understand all the details to buying. It can be a whirlwind but keeping these things in mind before buying a house will put you ahead of the game.

 

#1. Learn the neighborhood.

I know this seems like it could be impossible if you don't live there but you might be surprised how much you learn about a neighborhood before you move in. This is something that you really cannot change at all and have no control over once you live in the neighborhood. The best way to do this is to knock on neighbors doors and ask them about the neighborhood. Is it a safe neighborhood? Are there a lot of crimes? How noisy is the neighborhood? How fast is the traffic that goes through the neighborhood? Are there a lot of kids in the neighborhood? Ask questions that would appeal to you either as a parent of small children or as an empty-nestor. Also don't just talk to one neighbor but talked to several around the exact home you're considering buying. Ask about the schools, the commute, and any dangers that they've had. Plus, you'll want to ask the neighbors how long they've lived there so you get a good sense of how well they know their own neighborhood.

 

#2. Know the house as best you can before moving in.

Again, this is something that is hard to do until you've lived there for a while, but consider it as you would a used car. Check out everything including all of the faucets, outlets, appliances, flush the toilet and run the water, blast the heat or the air-conditioning and see if it all works. A home inspector will help you with these things but it's a good idea to make note of them yourself when reviewing the home. Also, do that final walk-through before closing so you are comfortable with the way the house is before you move in.

 

#3. Don't disregard odors.

I can't tell you how many homebuyers that have wandered through a house totally disregarding urine smells, smoke smells and mildew smells. These are three extremely alarming issues that may need to be taken care of before you move in. If there is a serious urine smell, this could be caused by leaking in the bathroom or by pets. This could be an extremely costly repair if you have to dig down to the subfloor to replace it. If there's smoke smells, there could be issues with ventilation and if you smell any mold or mildew, it could be a cause for leakage and could seriously be damaging to the home and cost thousands of dollars in repairs. Also, be cautious if homeowners mask smells with strong floral or other odors. There could be something they're trying to hide.

 

#4. Guard your emotions.

So many homeowners will enter a house and instantly fall in love and then realize there is a mountain of problems with the house. Some homeowners completely disregard all of the issues because they feel they love the home so much they can overlook problem areas. That won't be the case six months from then. Try to keep your emotions at bay and guard your love for the home until you really move-in. Don't shop with your heart; shop with your mind, your monthly budget and all five senses.

 

#5. Be prepared to move quickly but don't feel pressured.

I know that sounds like an oxymoron but you want to be able to move quickly when the right home becomes available. This means having your preapproval letter ready to go, be prequalified for a home loan, and be prepared to place an offer when the time comes. However, don't be pressured by listing agents, when a house will be listed on the market or any pressure tactics by sellers stating that they will only take offers at a certain time. This will give you the sense of a buying frenzy and make you nervous and anxious. Let a qualified professional take control of the situation, offer advice and easier mind when it comes to making an offer on the right house at the right time.

Read more: What Not to To Do When Applying for a Mortgage

 

Of course, working with a qualified, seasoned and skilled professional is always at the top of the list of any first time or repeat homebuyers list. As a Palm Springs and Palm Desert real estate agent it is my job, passion and duty to make sure that you find the right home, are well informed before any decision is made and feel comfortable with your purchase long after closing.

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