You’ve seen the ad in the newspaper, and now you’re ready to dig in to what this house really has to offer. Here are some things that often get overlooked by the wall color and carpet, that we think are very important for you to pay attention to at an open house!
1. THE NEIGHBORHOOD
When I asked our realtors what someone attending an open house should look for, the neighborhood got an overwhelming response. Look around. What is going on in the neighborhood? What do the surrounding homes and yards look like? Are they filled with junk and trash? Is there a park, pond, trail or open space? You can learn more about your neighborhood here.
2. THE NEIGHBORS
This goes along with the previous point. Typically, open houses are on the weekend or at night, so it's a good time to see what the neighborhood is really like, ie. what is going on at your protentional neighbor’s house? Are kids playing, are people on their porches, are there 4 large dogs that are prone to bark? These facets may change your mind about purchasing that seemingly-perfect house.
3. HOA FEE
While you are checking out the neighborhood, ask if there is an HOA fee and what services it covers (snow removal, park/land maintenance, etc.) This could be a make it or break it depending on how large the fee is and what you are looking for.
4. LAYOUT OF THE ROOMS
If you have little kids, are their bedrooms close by? Do you want the master bedroom on the other side of the home from teenager’s rooms? Does the home flow from the kitchen to dinning to the family room?
5. ENERGY UPGRADES
Are there energy upgrades that you can't readily see like extra insulation, upgraded windows, a more energy efficient furnace, ect. Factor all of this in to what you will be buying.
6. NEW DEVELOPMENTS
If the home is in a newer subdivision, ask what other developments are coming soon. The view out the back deck of the farmland or The Bridgers may soon be filled with more homes.
7. SCHOOL
Remember that a home's location does not determine the school your kids will go to. The school district determines what school your kids will go to. You can be 1 block from a grade school but the 3rd grade may be full and those 3rd graders are bused to a school across town.
8. SIGNS OF MOLD
Click here to read the last 2 points!
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