Real Estate Insights

Why finding the perfect home is like finding Mr. or Mrs. Right Return to Articles

Trachelle Spencer Sat Nov 07 00:00:00 UTC 2020
Disclaimer: This blog may contain affiliate links .

 

Let’s face it, home buying is emotional. Before you start your home search, ask yourself if you are ready.  What are your plans for the next 5-10 years? Do you have financial stability? Are you ready to settle down?  We have all heard the saying that marriage is more than the wedding day so it is wise to recognize that homeownership is more than the move-in day. Before you sign the closing documents, realize that buying a home is a long term commitment.

To find the perfect house and avoid heartbreak, go into the process with a level head. The home buying experience is full of peaks and valleys, which means you need to be game-ready before you start the search. Amy Fontinelle addresses the “Top House-Hunting Mistakes” in Investopedia, breaking things down both emotionally and financially. Determine your budget, and create a list of wants and needs ahead of time.

You’ve jumped into the dating pool and found a home worthy of your interest, now the discovery phase begins. This is where the games are played so be careful and don’t get burned.  You will find that some homeowners are naturally more open than others. The best relationships are with the ones who have pride and confidence in their home’s health; they are open because they have nothing to hide. Be aware of deceptive sellers who keep too many secrets; they might be hiding major flaws that could result in costly repairs.

While sellers are required to disclose known defects, each state has a different set of rules. It is in your best interest to be thorough during your due diligence. In a hot housing market, this may be harder to do when a listing has multiple offers.  When a home has many suitors or is considered in high demand, you are more likely to make irrational decisions as you become overwhelmed with envy. While it is tempting to fall for the thrill of the chase, give yourself time to reflect on your emotions, and review your original list of must-haves.

Although it is easier said than done, follow through with your research. In Houselogic, John Riha details "The 12 Questions You’ll Wish You Asked Before You Moved In."   Don’t overlook a home’s health and major systems. How old is the roof and when was the last time it was inspected or repaired?  Is the hot water heater in good condition or is it nearing the end of its useful life? The sellers claim the appliances are “new”, but what does that mean?

Your dream home has made the final cut and you are ready to make that long term commitment. This is your last chance to dig deep; this is the make it or break it phase. Try your best to understand the home’s history. Ask the homeowners for documentation on their maintenance and repairs. Review the findings from the inspection report.

Just like getting to know each other’s friends and family, introduce yourself to the neighbors and learn more about the home and neighborhood.  A good best friend will always tell you the truth; expect the same honesty from your real estate agent.  You are paying your Realtor for their unbiased advice so take their opinions to heart; they are helping you avoid buyer’s remorse.

No home is perfect, but the right home is where you can let your hair down, relax, and be your most authentic self. Your home is where you feel at peace and make happy memories. It marks the beginning of a new phase in your life where hopefully you grow strong and old together.

RezDox helps take the stress out of the home buying process and is intended to give buyers peace of mind.  A RezDox home history report details a home’s maintenance and improvement projects including materials used and the service providers that were hired. All information can be verified with uploaded receipts, invoices, photos, or videos.

Trachelle Spencer

Co-Founder, CEO RezDox

 

 

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