What should I look for beyond the house?
- Find out if the property is in a flood zone.
- Find out which schools children go to, where they are, and what they are like.
- If the property on a historic preservation list.
- Understand any easements that are on the property.
- Traffic on nearby streets.
- Property zoning and building restrictions.
- If there are heritage trees, do they impact your goals.
Am I getting what I think I'm paying for?
- Be sure that items that are important to you are listed on the purchase contract.
- Purchasing a home protection plan can be an economical way to gurantee that appliances will be useable for at
least a year after you move it.
- Owner Title Insurance will protect you against unknown claims.
- If you are buying a property such as a Condominium in a common interest subdivision, be sure to review the
bylaws and CC&R's.
Are there guidelines for how much a buyershould offer?
- Comparable sales are the best starting point for evaluating the price. Your agent will have the experience to
account for the impact of different locations and different sales dates.
When buying a house, timing can be critical.
- Buying a home with value requires experience and quick actions.
- Homes can be sold before they are opened for public viewing.
- Even when a seller is intending to work out the details with a chosen buyer, until a contract is signed a
new buyer can come in with a better offer and get the property.
- Work with an experienced agent.