Key Questions To Ask When Shopping For A House
When you're looking for a new luxury home, it's natural to be full of questions. However, there are many questions that can be overlooked in the excitement when you find what you think of as that perfect place. Here are a few of the lesser-thought-of questions that you should try to ask when you're shopping for a home.
The Costs For Maintenance
The current homeowner should be able to tell you what the average costs are for monthly utilities and household maintenance. It's important to consider this when you're evaluating the home because an affordable property is only affordable when it isn't cost-prohibitive to maintain. The last thing you want is to have utility bills that are far beyond your budget even if the mortgage is affordable.
History Of Plumbing Problems
If there's ever been any history of plumbing problems in the house, there's a risk that there's hidden water damage. Ask about the history of the plumbing system and any water problems that may have occurred. The more you know, the easier it will be to spot problems before they become serious concerns.
Past Pest Infestations
Any past pest infestations could leave problems behind or even the risk of re-infestation. Ask about the pest control history of the property and what measures were taken to mediate them. Then, you can call in a pest control specialist to make sure that things are treated and there's preventative maintenance steps in place. It's also a good time to ask about termites as you can have the whole house tented before you move in.
Any Warranties
Ask about the existence of any active warranties on appliances and other household features. The homeowner should be able to provide documentation, especially if the warranty is transferrable to you as the new property owner. Things like this can save you thousands in repair costs, so don't forget to ask about them.
Parking Issues
If there are any parking restrictions around the property, you'll want to know about it before you make an offer. After all, if you or your guests will need a permit to park on the street or near the property, it's something you have to factor into the home cost.
Talk with your real estate agent about these concerns before you make an offer on any home. The better informed you are, the easier it will be for you to come up with a fair and reasonable offer.