Having a home of your own is one of the best ways to build yourself a perfect little oasis in the middle of the hectic world. However, in order to find the perfect residence that fits all of your needs, you need to find one that looks great and is in good shape.
Before you even tour a bunch of homes that are on the market, it is important to draw up a list of requirements. Your requirements are entirely up to you, but here are the seven things you want to pay extra careful attention to.
1. How Does it Look?
A lot can be changed with a good interior design scheme but you want to make sure that the house has all that you need to build on. Whether you are planning a large renovation project or not, it should have ‘good bones’. In addition to the cosmetic appeal of your home, it should be structurally sound. Before any binding agreement, have the home inspected by a professional.
This can tell you exactly what state it is in and what needs to be done to it. As well as the interior, inspect the landscaping and see that it fits into your needs.
2. Is it Properly Insured?
When you are thinking of purchasing a home, check out rates for home and contents insurance in your area. If something unforeseen should happen, you want to protect your home and your belongings. If your policy covers a hazard, such as a fire or an extreme act of weather, they can help to offset the cost of replacing essential items in your home as well as the cost of repairs to the home itself. Getting a higher degree of insurance for your home and belongings may cost a higher premium but the peace of mind is well worth it.
3. Shop Around for a Mortgage
If you are buying your first home, getting pre-approved for a loan is an important initial step but so is shopping around and finding the best deal you can. You want to find a lender that can offer you the amount that you need and with an interest rate and repayment schedule that you can live with.
Some loans come with hidden fees so it is important not to just look at the monthly rate that you will be responsible for but all the aspects of the loan itself.
4. Find Your Ideal Realtor
Your realtor should not only be personable and capable but they should also be quite familiar with the market in your community. Make sure that they know the unique aspects of your chosen neighbourhood and can find you the best place where you can truly be yourself. See what they have to offer you from both a housing standpoint and a cultural one.
Look at the history of recent sales and see if that fits into what you envision for yourself. It is important to find a realtor who understands the business side of things as well as the ins and outs of your community.
5. Check the Veracity of the Listing
In order to make a home appeal to potential buyers, the listing may not present the whole truth, or it may make some claims that can not be verified. Tour the home, inspect it well and speak to the current owners. See what is considered personal property and what is considered a fixture that goes with the home. Be sure to verify all of your preconceptions and you will not be surprised in the end.
6. Are the Papers in Order?
Buying a new home involves a mountain of paperwork. You need to make sure that everything is in order before you sign anything. Verify the identity of the seller and make sure that they are actually able to transfer the home into your name.
They should also be able to show you documentation that proves the property is up to date on all taxes and has been given permission to provide shelter to as many people as you need. This paperwork is not as exciting as viewing the grounds, but it is the most important part of all of them.
7. Imagine Your Life in the Home
Before you make any agreement or sign any papers, it is important to ask yourself if it is possible to live a good life in the home. Imagine all the rooms decorated to your taste, imagine the different uses you will have for each room. Try to see if the home has all the capabilities and possibilities that you desire and your decision will be much easier.
Becoming a homeowner is an exciting time in life. Follow these seven rules to make the best possible decision for you and your happiness.
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