When you are looking for a new house, there are certain aspects you can overlook because they are not permanent features. There are also aspects you shouldn’t ignore. Real Estate Ink, a full-service boutique brokerage in Melbourne, FL, has the following helpful list for house-hunters:
Ignore:
Light Fixtures & Hardware
Don’t let light fixtures and doorknobs deter you from snagging a dream house. Hinges, hardware, knobs, and light fixtures are cheap to fix.
Paint Colors
If you hate a house’s current paint colors, you can re-paint, wallpaper, or hire someone to do that for you. Generally, painting is not too time-consuming or expensive.
Home Age
An older house’s age isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Many older homes were built with high-quality craftsmanship and materials. There is a great deal of character in a house with excellent workmanship. Newer homes with poor materials and construction are not better.
Outdated Features
Outdated features, like carpeting, for example, can be easily changed. Choose the modern options you like, and if possible, schedule to have ceilings and floors redone before your move-in date (they can be messy and labor-intensive). If you need to wait until you can afford the projects, resurface the bathtubs, countertops, and sinks as a temporary fix.
Don’t Ignore:
Rotten Smells
Use discretion when considering a house that has bad smells. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that cigarette smoke or urine odors will disappear after you move in, even after a deep cleaning. Mold and mildew can also prove to be trouble.
Bad Neighbors
You can’t change your neighbors once you move in. Their rotten behavior can be frustrating and create community tension. Or, if the house next to you is in neglected shape, it can decrease your own home’s resale value.
Poor Layout
While it is possible to modify a home’s layout, remember that major changes, such as expanding the floorplan or adding a level, require permits. Consult the county permit office about local building regulations before purchasing a property that needs a huge overhaul.
While you can always change the layout, keep in mind that it can be expensive. Hire an architect to complete a feasibility study; this will help you establish whether a project is worth it.
