So it's Saturday/Sunday afternoon and you have decided you are going to check out some open houses in the area. You will undoubtedly notice the curb appeal, the floors, the walls, etc. Today we give you 4 things you SHOULD be checking out at the open houses!
1. BUDGET BUSTERS!!! - You will surely get the seller's disclosure and get an inspection before the end of your option period. However, just by walking around the house and having an eagle eye, you can spot a few things that will totally change how much the house TRULY costs and is worth. A cracked foundation or driveway, a damaged or aging roof, older worn windows, pipe quality, water damage, and the home's main systems are just a few things you can catch that should be HUGE red flags if there is something not quite right.
2. HARD TO CHANGE SITUATIONS - Just like when you get a new job, you should map out your frequently traveled routes. It may sound silly, but if you know you are going to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, walking back and forth through the living area to the primary bedroom, you should walk the route. Picture your furniture there, and see how it flows. Well staged houses can be traps for poor layouts. Everyone notices paint color, furniture location, etc. but not everyone notices how the windows let in light. Try and look at the house from the most everyday perspective and know that no matter what, some things cannot be changed, for better or worse!
3. IS THE STORAGE A FIT? - All homes have some type of storage space in some type of location. Is most of the storage space in the kitchen with a bunch of cabinets? Do you have a big laundry room that has drawers and cabinets? Are there extra closets in every hallway outside of every room? Does that house have a big primary wardrobe and big closets in each room? Is there suitable attic space or a room under the stairs? Keep in mind older houses tend to have less storage than newer houses. Make sure you have somewhere to put all your extra stuff!!
4. SMELLS GOOD? UH-OH!! - Not always and some people just like to have nice smells in their homes. If you walk into a house that has a candle or an air freshener in every room, they may be trying to cover something up. The lemony fresh floor cleaner and the $45 scented candle may be covering up mildew/mold or pet odors that may be permanent. Make sure you trust your sniffer and smell through the distractions!
In Conclusion....
Going to open houses can and should be fun! Someone else is literally inviting you in their home with the intention of you buying it from them. They can have snacks, mimosas, cookies for the kids and all sorts of other fun type things going on. However, you are potentially going to make the biggest investment of your life and you want you and your family to make sure you check EVERYTHING out, no distractions. Happy house hunting!!!
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