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 process will help you get a feeling for the homes in the community and narrow your choices to a few homes that are worth a second look.
If you\’re looking in more than one community, try to make the most of each house-hunting trip. Stop by the local Chamber of Commerce to pick up promotional literature about the community or ask the sales professional for welcome kits, maps, and information about schools, houses of worship, and recreational facilities. Also, be sure to take along a camera and snap some pictures of all the homes you\’re interested in. That will make it easier to remember and reach a decision.
When you find a home you may be interested in buying, make sure the sales professional asks the owner the following questions:
- How much money do you pay for monthly utilities?
- Have you had any problems with water or dampness in the basement?
- Are there defects or problem areas that need to be fixed right away?
- How old is the furnace and the central air conditioning system?
- How old is the roof? Have you experienced any leaking?