How Do I Go About Finding the Right Home?

How Do I Go About Finding the Right Home?

House hunting is a logical process I have experienced over and over again. As you turn corners and discover
new questions along the way, you can count on me for expert guidance. After determining how much home
you can afford, I can begin to search for properties that meet your specific requirements. Square footage,
geographic area, price, terms, number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms and type of parking or garage are just
some of the many criteria I can use to search in the MLS on-line system. We will also want to watch for any
“For Sale By Owners” (FSBOs) homes that might meet your needs. In addition, if new construction is
something you might be interested in, I will tour new home subdivisions to get an idea of what is available.

In the initial search I will look at all properties that meet your requirements. I will study the printed MLS
information and perhaps drive by. As you approach these homes, look at the condition of the roof, foundations,
paint and landscaping. Observe the neighborhood...the condition of the other homes. Is the home on a busy
street? Is there suitable parking? How close are schools, shopping, and entertainment?

After this initial search, you’ll probably be able to narrow your search to just a few neighborhoods. A private,
free web site will then be set up for you. When you see a property that’s appealing, please contact me to set a
showing appointment. Don’t be surprised if the first home you see is the perfect one for you, and don’t be
discouraged if none of those you visit the first day is what you want. I am committed to finding the one that
you want to call “HOME” and will work diligently until we find it!

For a more intimate impression, (after we have finished our tour) you may want to return and walk around the
neighborhoods that looked attractive to you. Knock on the doors of neighbors and see how they like living in
the neighborhood. Visit the schools your children will attend. Inspecting the neighborhood is as important as
inspecting the homes you may buy.

As we walk through homes, feel free to open cabinets and closets. If the appliances are to be included, check
their condition. Most often the Sellers will be absent, but should they be present, they will understand your
need to examine the home carefully. If the home appeals to you, make notes. It’s easy to forget details. Often
there will be a brochure available for you to take along to help you recall the homes as you review your tour and
I will provide you with copies of the MLS data sheets on the homes you are viewing.

What if I am Buying a Resale Home?

Homes with a past have a special appeal. Existing homes are a settled place; the foundation, the landscaping,
the neighborhood, and the neighborhood services are probably where they are going to be for some time. An
existing home has a lived-in look. The things to be looking out for are wear and tear items:
• Is the foundation solid?
• Are the windowsills, walls, floors and ceilings sound?
• When and what kind of plumbing was installed?
• What is the condition and extent of the electrical system?
• What is the condition of the heating/cooling system?
• What are the monthly utility costs?
• How much insulation is there?
• Should you want to, what will it cost to remodel and make necessary repairs
• (especially to kitchen and baths)?
All of these items will be thoroughly checked by your home inspector.

What If I am Buying a New Home?

New home construction is changing all the time. Builders are trying to adapt designs to today’s lifestyles,
incorporate new technology, building materials, and equipment, while keeping prices as affordable as possible.
Buying a new home is attractive because everything is new. Energy efficiency is required by building codes. If
the new home is under construction you can usually choose paint, carpet, etc. In a new home your maintenance
costs should be minimal and the builder’s warranty usually guarantees against structural flaws. However, you’ll
usually have additional costs such as landscaping (especially the rear yard), window coverings, and some
appliances.
Some of the signs of good construction are: good carpentry (well fitted windows and molding, wood floors that
do not squeak); solid structure; no cracks or damp spots in basement floors and walls; insulation that measures
as advertised; everything in good working order (faucets, electrical, heating, etc.); a yard without low, wet
spots, and grading that slopes away from the house.
A home inspector should be engaged to check new construction, too, especially during construction, before any
problems are covered up. I’ll be happy to refer you to a professional home inspector.