House Hunter

So, you’re on the prowl for a new home, huh? It’s easy to get swept up in the fantasy of where your couch will go and which wall will host your you over sized TV, but hold your horses!
Knowing what to look for can mean the difference between scoring your dream pad and buying a money pit that makes you cry into your cereal every morning.
Before you start mentally arranging your furniture, here are some crucial things to keep in mind during open inspections to make sure you’re not buying a lemon.

Outside the Property

Traffic: If your future home is next to a highway, you might as well set up a lemonade stand for all the traffic you’ll be dealing with. Heavy traffic can be a real buzzkill.

Parking: No driveway? Check if there’s parking nearby or if you’ll need a permit. Otherwise, you might end up parking so far away you’ll need a GPS to find your car.

Noise Levels: Visit at different times, including weekends and nights. You don’t want to discover that your peaceful haven turns into a rave party every Friday night.

Flood Zones: Make sure you’re not buying a house that turns into a swimming pool every time it rains. Flood insurance is pricey and hard to get.

Amenities: Schools, supermarkets, and public transport should be within a stone’s throw. Unless you’re into long, scenic walks to buy milk.

Garage Space: No garage? Think about where you’ll stash your stuff or park your car. Renting extra space can be a pain in the wallet.

School Zoning: Got kids or planning to have them? Make sure you’re in the right school zones. You don’t want to end up in the “School of Hard Knocks.”

Inside the Property

Damp Spots: Look for dark patches, musty smells, and condensation. Damp can lead to mold, and mold is like that annoying relative who never leaves.

Water Pressure: Test all taps and flush toilets. Low water pressure or drippy tap can mean plumbing issues. And trust me, you don’t want to deal with that.

Electrical: Check plug sockets and make sure lights don’t flicker. Faulty wiring is not just a fire hazard; it’s also a wallet hazard.

Cracks in Walls: Any crack can be a red flag. Structural problems are like the boss level in a video game—expensive and complicated.

Space: Make sure there’s enough room for your stuff. If you have to downsize, you might have to say goodbye to your beloved bean bag chair.

Natural Light: Natural light can make a huge difference. If the place feels like a dungeon even with the curtains open, you might want to keep looking.

By taking the time to thoroughly inspect both the inside and outside of a potential home, you can dodge many common pitfalls.
Remember, it’s not just about finding a house—it’s about finding the right home for YOU. 
Almost all of these issues can be fixed with a renovation, and you may have stumbled upon a diamond in the rough.
Going in with your eyes open is key, even though you’ll find out sooner or later with a building and pest inspection.
A little awareness is your first line of defense to save you time and money.

Happy hunting!