Tips For Buyers When Looking At Houses

Looking at houses can be a fun experience, but it can also be disheartening to look at house after house and not see anything that meets your needs. It is important to work closely with your real estate agent to narrow down your wants and needs to only look at houses that would fill your needs. If the market has low inventory, it may be necessary to compromise desires or be patient to find the home for you.

As a buyer, when looking at houses with a real estate agent, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most of your time and find the perfect home for you. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Dress comfortably and wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. You'll likely be walking around and may need to remove your shoes before entering some homes.

2. Prepare a list of questions to ask your real estate agent before and during the viewing. Some questions to consider asking include:

• How long has the house been on the market?
• What is the asking price and how negotiable is it?
• What are the property taxes?
• What is included in the sale (e.g. appliances, fixtures)?
• Are there any known issues or repairs needed?
• What is the neighborhood like?
• What is the age of the roof, HVAC, and appliances?
• What are the nearby amenities?

3. Take your time looking at each house, but try to keep the viewing to under an hour. It's easy to get lost in the details, but you don't want to exhaust yourself or your real estate agent by spending too much time in each house. Most people know if they love or dislike a home within the first minute of arriving. If it is not for you, then it is ok to leave the showing. If you like it, spend the showing time looking at every part of the house. A second showing is also an option too. 

4. Look beyond the decor and focus on the layout and structure of the house. Try to envision yourself living in the space and consider things like the size of the rooms, the natural lighting, and the flow between rooms.

5. Don't be afraid to open drawers and cabinets, check for signs of water damage, and inspect the basement and attic. These areas can reveal important information about the condition of the house.

6. Consider the location of the house and the surrounding neighborhood. Look for signs of maintenance and upkeep, and take note of any noise or traffic nearby.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your time and ensure that you find the perfect home for you.