Things to Keep in Mind Before you Sign

Andra Arnold • September 30, 2024

Buying a home is one of the most exciting adventures you’ll ever embark on! But, let’s be honest — it can also feel a bit overwhelming, like you’re trying to juggle a dozen things at once. From finding that perfect place to making sure it ticks all the boxes, there’s a lot to think about. But don’t worry! By focusing on a few key things, you’ll feel much more in control and ready to take the plunge. Here are 12 fun and helpful things to keep in mind before you sign on the dotted line:

1. Location, Location, Location!

You can change almost anything about a home—paint colors, floor plans, even adding that dreamy skylight—but there are a few things you just can’t alter. The view, the lot size, and your neighbors are all tied to the location. So, making sure the neighborhood fits your lifestyle is super important.

Ask yourself:

Are the homes around you well taken care of?
Do you like how much space there is between houses?
Are schools or churches nearby, and could they make the area busier at certain times?
What’s within walking distance—any favorite parks, coffee shops, or restaurants?

Bottom line: A home in the right location can make your heart sing for years to come!

2. School Districts: Not Just for Parents!

Even if kids aren’t in your plans, buying in a great school district is always a smart move. Homes in top-rated districts tend to hold their value and sell more easily. Plus, if you do have kiddos or are planning to, a good school district means you’re all set!

Check out local school ratings, extracurricular options, and nearby transportation. A great school district also adds a sense of community—and who doesn’t love that?

3. Is There Enough Parking?

Parking might not be the first thing on your mind when you’re oohing and ahhing over a house, but it’s super important!

Think about:

How many cars will need parking?
Is there street parking, and are there any seasonal restrictions?

Trust me, you don’t want to fall in love with a home only to find out you’ll be fighting for a parking spot or walking three blocks to get to your front door!

4. Meet the Neighbors!

Good neighbors can make you love your home even more, while not-so-great ones can drive you up the wall. You might not be able to chat with everyone before you buy, but take a look around—are the lawns and gardens well-kept? That’s usually a good sign. If you see piles of junk or an overgrown yard, it could mean trouble later.

If you’re really curious, why not take a stroll through the neighborhood at different times of the day? It’s a great way to get a feel for the vibe!

5. What's the Neighborhood Like?

A place might seem perfect on paper, but what’s it like at night or on weekends? A house near a schoolyard might seem peaceful during the day, but if you’re not a fan of noise, it could become a headache when kids are out playing. Or maybe that “quiet” street turns into a party hub every Friday night. Always good to know before you make any decisions!

6. What’s Inside the Home?

Appliances included? Yay! But wait, how old are they? A shiny kitchen might win you over, but if everything is 15 years old, you could be in for some expensive repairs down the line. Make sure you check the ages of things like the furnace, roof, and appliances. If they’re newer, that’s one less thing to worry about!

7. Take a Good Look Outside, Too

The outside of a home can give you some big clues about its condition. Check for cracks in the foundation, worn-out window seals, or anything that seems more than just cosmetic. These could be signs of bigger problems, and you definitely don’t want surprises down the road. A home inspector can help you spot any red flags.

8. Does It Fit Your Lifestyle?

You might dream of having a gorgeous garden, but are you ready for the upkeep? If you’re already juggling a full-time job and a busy schedule, spending hours every week on yard work might not be what you want. The same goes for a fixer-upper—make sure you’re up for the renovations before you dive in!

9. Stick to Your Budget (But Think Ahead!)

Staying within budget is key, but also think about the future. Are you planning to grow your family or start working from home? Life changes, and it’s good to pick a home that can change with you. If you’re planning ahead, maybe a slightly bigger home is the right choice to save you from moving again soon!

10. Is the House Haunted (Or Worse)?

Okay, maybe not haunted, but you never know! Sometimes houses come with stories—like being the site of a crime or having some spooky rumors attached to them. It might not bother you, but it could turn off future buyers. A quick Google search or a peek at websites like housecreep .com will tell you if there’s anything to worry about.

11. Don’t Forget the Legal Stuff!

A house can look perfect, but behind the scenes, there could be legal issues—like a lien on the property or unfinished work orders. Yikes! Luckily, your real estate agent can help you find a lawyer to dig into the details and make sure everything is clear before you buy.

12. A Great Buying Agent Makes All the Difference

Here’s where the magic happens! A fantastic buying agent is like your personal home-buying superhero. They know the local market, can find homes that meet your needs, and will fight to get you the best deal. Plus, they’ll walk you through all the paperwork, negotiate on your behalf, and make the whole process way less stressful.

With an agent you trust, you’ll have peace of mind and someone in your corner every step of the way. And before you know it, you’ll be holding the keys to your dream home!

Let’s Get You Home!

Now that you know what to look for, you’re one step closer to finding that perfect place. With these tips in hand—and an awesome real estate team by your side—you’ll be moving into your new home before you know it. Ready? Let’s do this!

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