When searching for a home, it can feel like an overwhelming process. That is where our checklist comes in handy. It will help you stay organized and focused while looking at houses. You’ll have a clear understanding of what’s important to you and see potential red flags before making an offer.
Find the right realtor
If you’re a first-time home buyer, it’s indispensable to find a trustworthy realtor. This person will be your guide through the process. You want a realtor who is familiar with your area and where you might want to live. Ideally, you want a realtor who specializes in the type of home you’re looking for, whether it’s a starter home, a great investment property, or a luxury home.
Research location
The location of the house you buy at https://hawaiitrustedrealty.com/houses-for-sale-honolulu will determine many aspects of your daily life. You’ll want to make sure you find a location that fits both your short- and long-term needs. A few considerations include:
- Accessibility: Is public transportation nearby? Are there grocery stores, hospitals, drug stores within walking distance? How far is it from a major highway?
- Schools: If you have children, this is especially important. Research the local schools, their programs etc.
- Crime: Although you can’t completely eliminate risk, you can minimize it by checking the crime rates in the neighborhood.
How you feel about the home’s layout
Keep in mind the layout of the house you choose:
- Do you want a single-floor house with bedrooms on the main floor or upstairs?
- Do you want a two-floor house with bedrooms in the basement?
- How many bathrooms are needed?
Insist on a home inspection as part of the deal
A home inspection is a crucial part of the home-buying process. A good inspector will let you know what you’re getting into and offer advice on how to address issues as they arise. They will provide a written report that details the findings of the inspection. This also includes an estimated cost to make repairs.
The home’s resale potential
If you’re buying a house for investment purposes, you’ll want to make sure you buy something that has good resale potential. The best way to do this is to choose a house in a neighborhood that is growing in popularity.
What additional costs to expect
There are a few costs that you might not have considered when budgeting for a new home:
- Taxes: Taxes are often the last thing people think about when buying a home, but they are a crucial part of the buying process. You’ll want to make sure you know what you’ll be paying in taxes and when that payment is due.
- Home insurance: Home insurance is an essential and often overlooked part of the home-buying process. You’ll want to make sure you understand exactly how much coverage you need and what the costs will be for each policy.
- Closing costs: As soon as you make an offer on a house, you’ll start to accrue closing costs. These fees are unique to each house and can vary significantly.
Conclusion
Buying a house is a huge decision that will impact your life for years to come. Before you dive in and start looking for a house, make sure you understand your options and how the process works. Keep this checklist handy so you can stay on track with your search and make sure you find a house that is right for you.
