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When looking at homes, think about future costs:
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Expect lower maintenance costs with a brand-new home. |
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Pay attention to floor plans. Changing layouts of rooms later can be costly. |
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A house that's sited to take advantage of the sun, the wind and the topography costs less to heat and cool and can save thousands of dollars over the years in utility bills. |
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If you think you may need more space in the near future, be sure the house and lot will allow for expansion. |
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Redoing a kitchen can be expensive. Be sure of what you need and want before you buy. |
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Don't buy a house with foundation problems. Although most foundation problems can be corrected, repair work is usually expensive. |
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Before you buy a house that may have a wet basement problem, get a good unbiased diagnosis from a professional with moisture control experience. The solution could be costly. |
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A light-colored roof reflects heat and is best in areas where air-conditioning is the greater energy user. In colder weather climates, a dark roof is preferable because it absorbs more heat. In temperate climates, a middle-range shade is best. |
When looking at homes, think about reselling down the road:
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Don't buy an unusual home if you have to resell soon. |
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Remember, even if the quality of a school district doesn't matter to you now; it might someday to another buyer. |
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Buying a house that has a very unique style will probably minimize, rather than maximize, its resale value because the house will appeal to a more limited number of potential buyers. |
When negotiating the sale:
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Pay attention to the original listing date of the homes you inspect. Sellers tend to be more flexible in the price, the longer the home is on the market. |
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Never tell a seller's agent how much you'll raise your offer for a particular house. |
When considering your finances:
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Remember, you can deduct on that year’s tax return points paid by either party on the purchase of your own residence. |
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If the present owner has a title insurance policy less than three years old, you could have substantial savings by buying a reissue of that policy rather than buying a completely new one. |
When thinking about potential improvements:
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Plant trees, shrubs and vines on south and west sides of the home to provide shade in the summer and sunshine in the winter. Remember trees enhance the value and beauty of a house. | |
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