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Buying a home is something many people dream of, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare if you make the wrong decision. Buy the wrong house, and you could end up with a home that is overpriced with tons of issues that will haunt you for years.
Thankfully, there are many things that you can do when visiting a property or looking at a listing which can give you a general idea of its state and true value. This will allow you to filter out the bad apples right away and concentrate on houses that could have potential. Let’s take a look at a few things you should look out for when buying a first home.
The State of the Market
The very first thing you should do when buying a property is look at the market. If everyone is selling up in an area, this is usually a sign that there might be something wrong with a neighborhood, but things can get more complex than that. This is why we would suggest that you always work with a qualified team who’s familiar with the area before you invest. If you are thinking of investing in a red-hot market like Minneapolis, for instance, you should contact Kerby & Cristina for top Minneapolis-area homes. Working with a reputable local team will help you find hidden gems or areas that might still be underpriced.
Strange Smells
If you go to a property and there are strange smells, it’s usually a very bad sign. This could either mean that the owner is neglectful or that there are underlying issues with the house, like mold, for instance. Mold is one of the worst things you can have in a house and it can be almost impossible to get rid of. Not only is it unsightly and unpleasant, but it could lead to a variety of health issues as well.
Bad smells are not the only thing you should worry about either. If you get a strong smell of air freshener, this could be them trying to cover something up. It could be pet smells, for instance, or mold growing somewhere. So, try to get to the bottom of the story before making a decision.
Water Pooling in the Backyard
A lot of people will advise that you visit a property on a rainy day so you can see if there are any possible leaks. But another thing you’ll be able to see is if any puddles are forming in the backyard. This could be a sign of poor grading or irrigation issues. If you can’t visit on a rainy day, try to pass by the property on a day it does and get a peek at the backyard if possible.
Roof Issues
If you see damaged, missing, or curled shingles on a roof, this is a big issue and one that will need to be discussed with the homeowner. It’s not automatically a deal-breaker if they offer a good discount for it, but you’ll have to think twice before you take on this burden.
These are all signs that a house may not be as good as it seems. Your best bet is to work with a good team and take your time before making your final choice.