The Home Buying Checklist: What to look for in a home?

The Home Buying Checklist: What to look for in a home?

It is easy to settle for any home especially if the home buying process becomes frustrating. As a potential homeowner in the Greater Toronto Area, you should ensure that the home that you choose meets your wants and needs. Don’t settle for anything less, as it will cost you money, time, and energy.

What should you look for?
• Location
We all have our preferences. Some enjoy the noise that living in towns offer while others love to have some time away from the hustle and bustle of daily living. Access the neighborhood, is it a community that you can comfortably settle in?

Find out whether they are development plans in the area that may affect the neighborhood. What are the facilities within the proximity of the residence? Maybe you are keen on keeping fit and would like to be able to get to the gym and back without much fuss.

Is the locale accessible by major roads or public transport?

• Condition of the house
Just because you get a sweet deal from the seller doesn’t mean it gives value for your money. You may invest in a property that will cost you more than it is worth. Check the state of the house.

That’s why it is necessary to get a home inspection done before you sign the offer. Check the plumbing and ensure that there is adequate pressure. There should be no leakage too.

How is the roof of the house? The longevity of a roof depends on what it is made of; steel roof may last longer than an asphalt roof. Check for cracks in the exterior foundation of the house.

• Reason for selling
You can also ask the seller why they chose to sell the property. How long have they been living in the house and how old it is? Get a disclosure statement for the home. Find out about the amount of tax levied in the area.

What are some of the zoning laws and how they could affect you? You can even investigate whether the property has a potential of increase in value.

Don’t just settle for any home. You should ensure that it meets your checklist and that the investment will be put to good use.