Homebuyer’s checklist before purchasing a new property

[Charles Heyward]

I have seen many homebuyers land into trouble when taking emotional decisions in buying property. They purchased the house just because it appears stylish and cozy but did not pay attention to dust coming from an agricultural land nearby. If you are a buyer, you need to step into the shoes of reality and do proper research to know whether the house is worth living in. I have prepared some tips you might want to consider before buying a new property.

Tip #1: Check affordability
Check your affordability before purchasing the house. Although the pool in the backyard may seem an attractive option, will you may not be able to afford the maintenance expenses.

Tip #2: Check the property at different times of the day
The street may be peaceful and quiet in the morning but in the evening, it may overflow with traffic. Or, Mr. Peterson may be peeping through your window during the night. That is why it is important to visit the house at all times of the day.

Tip #3: Inquire about the presence of neighborhood association
An association in the area means that the community in the neighborhood is closely knit. Find out if there are any newsletters or if the community in the neighborhood meets sometimes. A community indicates that neighbors care for each other and you can have good time during celebrations.

Tip #4: Past records
Ask the seller to provide you with past records of home improvement. For example, there are chances that if the air conditioning system was repaired long time ago, it may break down at any time soon.

Tip #5: Remodeling
If you think of remodeling the house, do examine the house closely. Perhaps remodeling the house may cost you a high price because the changes may not be as easy as you thought.

Tip #6: Surroundings
Observe the surroundings of the house you are planning to buy. If you see one or two houses torn down, there are chances of buildings coming up at a nearby location. A huge mall may arise blocking your view or some hospital or school may come up and cause inconvenience.

Tip #7: Past bills
Check how much the seller is paying in bills. The house may have high heating and cooling bills or water bill because of inefficiency in usage.

Tip #8: Tax bills
Tell your neighbor to show you past tax bills. Possibilities are that if the property value increases, your tax bills will show a steep rise.

Tip #9: Confirm the zoning
Confirm with the seller about the zoning in which the house is located and whether the house has any liens or restrictions.

Tip #10: Go through newspapers
Check the recent newspapers to find out if there are any proposed projects in your area. It is better to find out sooner about upcoming projects than to have surprises later on.