Buying a new house is one of the most exciting things you’ll do. The entire experience from making that decision to finally signing on the dotted line is full of thrills and surprises. Just what kind of adventure lies ahead is anyone’s guess, but as a new buyer, there are certain features you should look for when buying a new house. Here they are in no particular order.
1. A Proper Roof
You’d be surprised by the number of homebuyers who don’t take the roof seriously on the new abode they are considering. The roof is one of the most important features (if not THE most important) of any home. It is what protects you and your belongings from damage and injury during Mother Nature’s fury, and if it’s not up to the task, it could cost you thousands of dollars once the house is yours.
Before ever stepping foot inside a home you’re considering, take a look at its roof. If it appears in good shape, continue inside. If it catches your eye as in, “My, that’s quite a hole!” turn and walk away. Not only will you spend a great deal to repair it, a subpar roof will cost you more in homeowners insurance, too.
2. An Updated Furnace and Insulation
If the house you’re looking at is old, it’s safe to assume the furnace and insulation inside are as well. The furnace may still be in working order, but it will most likely be inefficient and costly on your utility bills.
Another key feature to look for when shopping for a new house is its insulation. Old houses usually have poor insulation, which also equates to higher utility costs.
Old houses are great – they have lots of unique character that many people appreciate. However, just because a house is old doesn’t mean it has to have its original equipment. Things like the furnace should be updated periodically for the most in energy and cost efficiency.
3. A Nice Neighborhood
Your new house can be great, but if the neighborhood it’s located in leaves a lot to be desired, you may find yourself stuck in a place you don’t want to be. You can change almost everything within your house and on your property, but you can’t change its location, so be sure the neighborhood is one you are comfortable with and happy to live in.
Take a drive around the surrounding area during the day and at night. Notice how your neighbors keep their lawns and the exteriors of their homes. Do they mow their grass regularly and have appealing landscaping or do they have old cars and car parts lying around the yard? While these things don’t affect you or your property directly, they do have an effect on the neighborhood’s value as a whole.
4. Working Plumbing
Working plumbing? In this day and age?
It sounds funny, but plumbing problems can go unnoticed for a long time, and when they are finally found, can wind up costing a homeowner big – in more ways than one.
When looking at a house, be sure to check under the kitchen and bathroom sinks for signs of leaks and/or water damage. Leaks that go unchecked can cause thousands of dollars in damage, and they can lead to mold growth, which is smelly and unhealthy, especially for babies, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems. If you see signs of mold or water damage, it’s best just to walk away because you just don’t know how far the damage goes.
Many of the features mentioned above can be checked during a professional home inspection. It may be an added expense, but it’s one well worth it if it turns up unsavory aspects in a home you’re seriously considering.
Buying a new home is exciting, but it’s also something you have to take seriously in order to avoid some costly mistakes. The four features you should look for when buying a new house above will help you weed through the duds to find the house of your dreams.
