BEFORE YOU BUY

By TOM SITZMAN

LOCATORS LTD

If buying a new home is in your future, or even if your plans are to build your own Dream Home, there are some important things to consider before you buy so that the choices you make will be right ones.

When setting out to buy a home, the first and most important thing to consider is location.

Location is a major key to re-sale value and it is also important to you as a buyer,. Who are your neighbors going to be?

Where will the kids be going to school? Is the area safe? What is the value of the homes in the area? Remember a good solid home in a good location is your best bet. Since people buy a new home on the average of 5-7 years, there is a good chance you will re-sell some day so, remember, location is Key !

When you begin house hunting, make sure you look at enough homes to make an informed decision. Get a feel for the market. Choose a qualified REALTOR and make sure they’re willing to represent you as a buyer and are willing to show you the homes you want to see. There are many things to keep in mind as you view prospective properties. Make sure you obtain a Property Condition Report form your REALTOR or the owner. This will have all the pertinent information as to age of furnace, roof, plumbing, electrical, etc. or whether the basement stays dry. These are important considerations. If any of these items are questionable, you may want to have them inspect by a qualified contractor. There are also Home Inspectors who will inspect the entire home before you commit to making the purchase.

If your plans are to build, it is essential to find a good building lot that will suite your needs as to the style of home you intend to build. The scope of land can determine what type of house would be best. A qualified architect or contractor can help you determine if the land is right for your plans. You should also consider the availability of utilities. Is city water and sewer available? If not, you will need to allow for this. Undeveloped land can be costly to building on. Before you commit to purchase any land, a soil test should be performed to make sure the ground is not contaminated. Well and septic systems should also be inspected for safety and proper drainage.

Once you have found the lot or acreage, working with a qualified contractor will make the building process easier and assure a quality home in the end.

Remember,whether you are buying a existing home or building- When in Doubt- Contact a Professional!