You're on the hunt for your next home. You know what you're looking for—a large kitchen, a modern bathroom and a two-car garage. But are there things you may be overlooking? Here are 10 things people often forget to check for when looking for a home to buy.
11 Things Most People Forget When Viewing a Home for Sale
Updated on May 22, 2024
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Storage Buildings
The usual focal point for home hunters viewing a listing is the house itself. Location is often at the forefront too. Outbuildings for tool and utility storage don’t often get much consideration, but they should. Even if the house you’re looking at comes with a garage, a separate storage shed will be a huge help. Lawn mowers, snow removal equipment, and woodworking and gardening tools all need to be stored somewhere dry and safe, and that’s where properties with sheds have a big advantage. Want to build your own small storage bunker? Here’s how.
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The Neighborhood
If the home that’s for sale is in a neighborhood you don’t know well, it’s worth a few trips to the neighborhood during different times of day. Check out the neighborhood at night—is it a place where you’d feel safe once the sun goes down? Is the home in a college neighborhood where late-night parties may keep you up at night?
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Cell Signal
If you rely on a cell phone for just about everything, check to see if you can get a signal inside the home for sale. If you can’t get cell service, will this be a problem for you? Learn how to get better cell phone reception at home.
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Your Commute
What will your commute be like to and from work? Test your commute from the house that’s for sale. See what rush hour is like in the morning and in the evening. These are the 10 things people regret overlooking when buying a home.
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Noise
Noise can be an issue for many home buyers. Is there plane or train traffic noise? Is the home near a freeway? If you’re a light sleeper, noise can be major problem. Here’s how to get rid of 23 annoying noises forever.
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Association Fees and Rules
Is the home that’s for sale in a community where you’ll have to pay homeowner association dues? Will you be able to paint your front door your favorite color? If the home is in an association, find out what the dues are and read through the bylaws. Here are some homeowner association horror stories to consider.
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Neighbors
Ask about the neighbors and try to meet them, if possible. Neighbors can make or break how you feel about your home. Meeting your neighbors can really help you gain insight into what the neighborhood is like. Here are 14 things your neighbor will never tell you.
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Resale Value
Even if you plan on staying in the home for several years, consider the resale value. Does the home backup to a busy street? Are there several apartment buildings on the street? Is the neighborhood undergoing a revitalization or is it struggling? Consider things that may scare off potential future buyers. Consider these 14 weekend projects that add value to your home.
Also, don’t forget to check out these signs of bad house flips.
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Water Pressure
Imagine moving into your new home only to find the water pressure is severely lacking. Make sure to test the faucets, including the shower and give the toilet a flush. If it’s an issue, learn how to increase water pressure in your home.
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Bedroom-to-Bathroom Ratio
When it comes to bedrooms and bathrooms, you’ll never regret having more bathrooms. Not having enough bathrooms can make you regret a home purchase. Learn how to plumb a basement bathroom.
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Is There Room to Expand?
When looking at a home for sale, consider if there is room to grow. If you don’t have kids now but plan to in the future, will there be enough room? Is there room to add on if needed and would it be affordable? If you work from home, is there a place where you can do so without distractions?
