Buying a home is an exciting process, but it can also be overwhelming, especially if this is your first home purchase. There are plenty of considerations to make when deciding whether to purchase a home, many of which you probably wouldn’t even think of. This guide will take you through questions to ask yourself when considering a home!

Your Ideal Home

The first thing you’ll want to consider is the size of the home you’re looking for. Do you have a big family or plan to start a family in the near future? This will most likely determine the house size you’re looking for. It’s a good idea to have an estimate of the square footage you’re looking for before even landing on a realtor. Another thing you’ll want to look at in regards to size is the lawn. Do you want a large or small yard? Or maybe something a little more hidden from the road? There are plenty of features to consider, such as a pool, patio, outdoor kitchen and so on. Some see these as luxurious, while others see the time and responsibilities that come with having these things. Ultimately, it’s up to the buyer and personal preference when it comes to these decisions.

The floorplan is going to play a major role in your decision. How the bedrooms and other rooms are set up will likely determine how much you like the space. Another thing to check for is power outlets. These can often be poorly placed and you’ll want to make sure there are enough properly placed outlets to fit your needs. Remember when checking out the bathrooms to keep your eyes peeled for a few things. You’ll want to make sure that everything is in working order (toilets, showers, faucets), that there is no water damage, and also check for mold. Stepping into the living room, take note of what you’re dreaming of for this space. Is it something ultra-modern or warm and cozy? Luckily, most of the time these things can be fixed. You’ll want to focus more on the layout and size of the room.

Pay Extra Attention

Don’t forget to pay attention to the home’s exterior, even before the home inspection. There’s a couple things to keep in mind when it comes to the home’s exterior. You can start by checking for damage on the roof and asking the home owners how old the roof is. Foundation issues can be a hefty expense. Look for cracks in the walls and doors/windows that jam. And finally, you’ll want to check the exterior walls for signs of decay, such as peeling paint or rotting wood.

Consider whether the property is energy efficient or not. What would need to be done to improve it if the property isn’t energy efficient? There are also some key questions you’ll want to ask about the home’s HVAC systems. Some systems will increase your utility costs, so make sure to keep this in mind.

  • Is the home installed with central air?
  • When were the heating and cooling systems installed?
  • What kind of heating does the house have?

Basements are also a thing to consider. If the home has a basement, is it finished or remodeled? Make sure to look for any potential water damage and mold or musty smells. If possible, try to get up to the attic to take a look around. Check for leaks or damage to the roof. Also, make sure to look around for any signs of animal dropping, as this could indicate an infestation. Don’t forget to look at the ventilation and insulation, as any sign of water damage could mean a damaged roof. One last place to check out is the garage. Is it a one-car or multi-car garage; attached or detached? Is there enough room for any additional storage you may need? Remember to check that the garage door is in good working condition.

Where Are You Buying A Home?

Learn about the area you’re going to be living in. Look up crime rates for the neighborhood and spend some time there yourself before moving along with the process. You should also take the time to learn about the public school system for that area, as this can say a lot about the neighborhood you plan to move to. You’ll also want to think about things like commute time to and from work.

During the process of buying a home, there are several professionals here to help. Your real estate agent will guide you through the buying process. Your mortgage lender will help you find the right home loan for you, as well as help you understand what you can afford. A home inspector will save you the trouble of unforeseen problems with the home prior to your purchase. Call Legacy Mutual Mortgage today and we’ll get you connected with one of our mortgage professionals, and any other professional you need a referral for to begin this exciting process!