Finding a home that you can see yourself in for the next five to twenty-five years is a great feeling. Don’t let that feeling cloud your judgment and leave you with unexpected issues after the closing. Below is a list of a few things to consider before you buy:

• Hire an expert to do your own home inspections and attend them if possible.
• Evaluate possible repairs/immediate improvements. Ask the seller to repair them or include the cost into your bidding.
• Know all of the vital systems that connect to the house (electrical, sewage, heating, air conditioning, garbage disposal, and water.) Investigate the ins and outs of these systems. Find out the age of these systems.
• Perform an energy audit. Confirm that your budget will match what your new home is going to cost on a monthly basis (electrical, sewage, heating, air conditioning, garbage disposal, and water.)
• Examine potential neighborhoods with a 24 hour perspective. Are there any dogs howling late at night? This is done by simply driving by during different times in the day or night.
• Do multiple practice commutes. One day is not enough time to judge the next 5+ years of driving to work.
• Consider your furniture, electronics and appliances. Will they fit into the new home or will you need to purchase new home furnishings?
• Research the local area to understand its economics, climate, and variables that will be part of your long-term lifestyle. For example, what school system will you be part of, near by restaurants, etc.

As a full-time real estate professional, I have the experience and knowledge to guide you through the home buying process. Buying a home is a complex transaction, and I’ll be right beside you to help navigate every step. Thankfully I am able to assist you with this entire checklist and much, much more…..

My knowledge includes:

• Advising and assisting your home search
• Performing a Competitive Market Analysis on properties that interest you.
• Providing guidance as you explore financing options.
• Drafting competitive offers and presenting them to sellers.
• Negotiating the terms and conditions of offers and counteroffers.
• Coordinating inspections, appraisals and contingency dates.

There’s no substitute for knowledge and experience, especially during a complex transaction such as buying a home. Give me a call today if you’re ready to begin your home search.