You’re almost there! In just a few days you’ll own your new home! Here are a few things to take care of during this exciting week:
- Sign loan docs and deposit the balance of your down payment to escrow.
- With your agent, do a final walk through on the property. The purpose of this walk through is to determine that the property is in relatively the same condition as when you viewed it previously. Specifically, you want to make sure there has been no vandalism and that if the seller had agreed to make repairs they have been satisfactorily completed.
- Arrange to have utilities switched to your name. It is a good idea to coordinate with the seller so there is some overlap and no chance that you might be without services. Besides energy utilities, water and cable make sure you find out about trash collection. In some areas it is managed by the city, while in others there are private companies who provide collection services.
- Submit a change of address to the post office.
- Make arrangements for any cleaning or painting or other projects you want to complete prior to moving in.
- If moving in soon, confirm with your moving company or truck rental agency.
- Make arrangements with your agent to collect your keys and any clickers after closing.
If you’re buying brand new home, the builder’s representative will supply you with all the answers to any of your questions along with warranties and manuals. If you’re buying a foreclosure, you’re on your own in terms of learning about the property and how everything works. On the other hand, if buying from a seller who occupied the property try to have them meet you for your walk-through or email them your questions. Here are some suggested questions:
- Are there manuals and/or warranties for the appliances?
- Is there a warranty from the builder or a separate warranty for the roof?
- If there is a security system, which company provides the monitoring, what does it cost, and how does it work?
- Where is the mailbox? Is there a key?
- If there is an automatic landscape sprinkler system, are there instructions for setting the controls?
- When was the last time any of the chimneys were cleaned (if wood burning)?
- Where are the exterior clean-outs for the drains?
- If on a septic system it was probably inspected. Make sure you know where the tank is located and how it is accessed.
- Are the property lines clearly marked?
- Where is the main shut-off for the water and gas?
- Swimming pool or spa? Have the current owner walk you through basic operations. Take notes…you won’t remember!
- Learn how to operate any exterior lights, fountains or ponds.
- Is there any type of water softener or filter? How does it operate?
- When was the last time the furnace filter was changed?
- Who are the current service providers (gardener, pool maintenance, etc) and what are there phone numbers?
Every home is of course different, and the questions you need to ask will vary according to the type and age of your home and where you live. But do take time to ask your questions now while you and your agent still have access to the seller.
If you’re ready to find your San Diego County dream home, just give me a call. Work with a Realtor who really knows the area!
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