You may be aware of the red flags to look for when buying a home, but what are the green flags that homebuyers should be watching for?
The real estate experts at Sequoia Real Estate are counting down the top 10 things to look for when buying a home.
10. Room to Grow
Many buyers make the mistake of purchasing a home that meets their current needs, without regard for their future needs.
If you are planning on having children in the next few years, for example, a one or two-bedroom home might not be large enough.
Having said that, your ideal future home might be out of your current budget. Don’t let that stop you from buying. Most people go through a natural progression for this very reason. You might have a starter home, then a larger family home, followed by your dream home. The goal isn’t to buy a home that you’ll never outgrow; just to find a home that will grow with you for the next several years.
9. Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Energy-efficient appliances and windows can save you money in the long term by reducing your energy bills. While you could always install these yourself, the upfront expense can be substantial. So if you don’t have the cash available for these upgrades, you might want to see if you can find a home that comes with them.
8. Storage Space
Pay attention to pantries, closets, basements, attics, and garages that provide extra storage space. Most buyers underestimate how much storage space they will need. And, if you somehow end up with extra storage space, you can rent out that space as a house hack!
7. Sound Moisture Barriers
Water intrusion can mean big problems in a house. The better the barriers against moisture, the lower your risk of water damage and/or mold. So look for a leak-free roof, sound weather stripping, and appropriate sealings in bathrooms and kitchens.
6. Proper Grading
Speaking of water intrusion, the grading of your lot makes a big difference in how water flows away from (or to) your house. You want the land to slope gently away from the house. This will help carry rainwater away from the structure to prevent possible water damage.
5. Reasonably New Heating and Cooling Systems
Heating and cooling systems are high-ticket items that are expensive to replace. If you have the cash available, you can install a new system in any home. But if the home purchase will take most of your available cash, it’s probably best to find a home with systems that won’t need to be replaced for several years.
4. Signs of Regular Maintenance
Unless you’re specifically looking for a fixer-upper, you want to look for a home that has been well-maintained. Check for cleanliness and functionality of minor things, like lighting and door hinges, to confirm that a house is well-maintained.
3. Safe Electrical Work
Between the time you get an offer accepted on a home and the time you close on it, you’ll have the opportunity to have a home inspection completed. Part of the inspection will include a review of the electrical work to make sure it’s up to code. But you should look for signs of safe electrical work while looking at homes. Check the breaker box to see what kind of condition it’s in. And be wary of any exposed wiring.
2. “Good Bones”
Having a sound structure is critical. You want to make sure the foundation is solid, as are all supporting frames in the house. Your home inspector will be able to check all visible areas to confirm that the structure is strong. It is possible to have a strong structure even if walls or floors are uneven. But if you see window frames bowing or doors hanging askew in their frames, you might have a structural issue.
1. Location, Location, Location
Real estate is all about location. Generally speaking, the worst house in the best neighborhood is more valuable than the best house in the worst neighborhood.
A “good location” can come from any or all of the following:
A stable or growing neighborhood.
Proximity to employment opportunities, shopping, dining, and entertainment.
A high-performing school district.
A quiet street (cul-de-sacs that don’t have thru traffic are especially valuable).
Are You Ready to Look for a New Home?
When you’re ready to make a move, contact Sequoia Real Estate to get an experienced real estate agent in your corner!