It\’s a matter of personal preference. Both new and older homes offer distinct advantages, depending upon your unique tastes and lifestyle. New homes generally have more space in the rooms where today\’s families do their living, like a family room or activity area. They\’re usually easier to maintain, too. However, many homes built years ago […]

As a rule of thumb, ask any questions you have about specific rooms, features, or functions. Pay particular attention to areas that you feel could become \”problem\” ones additions, defects, areas that have been repaired. And above all, if you don\’t feel your question has been answered, ask until you understand and are satisfied. In

Bring your own: Notebook and pen for note-taking Flashlight for seeing enclosed areas Tape measure for checking room sizes, clearances, etc. Camera (digital or 35mm) Be prepared to investigate a little. After all, you want to know as much as possible about the home you buy. Sellers understand that because their home is on the

There is no set number of homes you should look at before you decide to make an offer on one. That\’s why providing the sales professional with as many details as possible up front is so helpful. The perfect home may be waiting for you on your first visit. Even if it isn\’t, the house-hunting

Renting offers a lifestyle that\’s nearly maintenance-free. That may appeal to you, but consider that renting offers you no equity, no tax benefit, and most likely no protection against regular rent increases. If your rent has averaged $700 a month for the last 10 years, you\’ve spent $84,000 with nothing to show for it. Isn\’t

A professional appraisal is the best way to tell if a home is priced fairly. A real estate appraisal is an unbiased opinion of a property\’s value based on its style and appearance, construction quality, usefulness, and other factors, including the value of comparable properties nearby. When you apply for a mortgage, the lender will

For your own safety, and to make sure you\’re getting your money\’s worth in the home you choose, using a professional home inspector is highly recommended. A home inspector will check a variety of things such as your home\’s plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical systems, and look for structural problems like a damp or leaky

Because the legal contracts and other paperwork involved in buying a home are complex and can be confusing to the general public, many people prefer to work with an attorney. Your attorney will review contracts and make you aware of special considerations and potential problems, and can accompany you to the closing to help make

Tell the sales professional everything you like and don\’t like about each home you see. Don\’t be shy about discussing a home\’s shortcomings. Is the home too small for your needs? Let the sales professional know. Was the home perfect except for the carpeting? Let the sales professional know. However, remember that there can be

Yes, and the sooner the better. Your real estate professional can help you with this, but most insurance professionals have a lot of experience in working with homeowners and can offer useful tips about homeownership, particularly regarding home safety and keeping your premiums low. Once you\’ve found a home, work with your insurance agent to