As a real estate broker, I have had the opportunity to view thousands of homes over the past few years. From the time I opened my first lockbox until today, I feel that my evaluation of property has become more analytical and less “happy-go-lucky," or maybe I’m just getting old. Here are some of the ways I evaluate a home’s potential during the first viewing of a property.
Curb Appeal
As soon as you pull up to the home, you might already know that this home is just ugly and no amount of paint or landscaping can fix it. Unless you are willing to do major surgery, it might be better to move on to other options. Curb appeal will significantly impact your resale value in the future, for better or for worse.
Viewing the Exterior
Although the final word should be left to professional home inspectors and contractors, there is value in spotting issues before getting waist-deep in a home purchase. Here are a few examples:
- Roof: Any obvious signs of roof deterioration or damage to shingles, tiles, fascia, or soffits
- Exterior: Is there significant cracking in the stucco that might signal there is a more significant underlying issue, such as a broken or settling foundation?
- Windows: Have the windows been updated since the home was built in the 1960s? Does the home have hardware installed for hurricane shutters? Especially with the rising cost of homeowners insurance, windows and doors are important to consider and also costly to update.
- A/C: Is the outside A/C condenser a rust box? Not the end of the world, but plan accordingly.
- Pool: Does the surface look like it has significant damage or pitting? Does the pool equipment look poorly maintained? A pool renovation can be very costly.
- Potential Hazards: Are there giant oak trees very close to the home or near a septic drain field? Is the home properly graded around the foundation to prevent water intrusion?
- Exposure: What direction does the home face? This will affect the lighting and temperature in the home. The southern exposure tends to have a great deal of blazing sun here in Florida, which might be good for your south-facing backyard pool.
Viewing the inside
It can be easy to get distracted by a well-presented listing with pretty finishes and staging décor, but functionality and livability are just as important.
- Upon entry to the home, give it the old smell test - smoke, mold, and pet odor may stop you in your tracks. There are tips and tricks to remediate these issues, but it’s not always easy.
- How is the lighting? Turn the lights off and see what natural light is flowing throughout the home.
- Evaluate the floor plan: Does it suit your needs? If not, can it be re-configured easily? In general, it is difficult to add bathrooms or additional living square footage, but easy to remove non-load-bearing walls.
- Does the home exhibit quality craftsmanship? Were the tile, counters, and shower glass installed with care? Open and close cabinets, open and close doors. Check the ceiling for water spots (signs of a past or current roof leak).
Evaluate mechanicals: A/C, water heater, check under sinks in kitchen and vanities for problems. - Commonly missed important features include considering where the laundry hookups are located and generally accounting for storage by observing the number of closets and other storage areas.
- Assess the garage: Is it adequate for cars and storage? Is there attic access? Is the garage door hurricane-rated?
In the journey of home hunting, it's crucial to remember that there's a lot to consider. Every property has its unique features and potential pitfalls. That's why having a second set of eyes can be invaluable. When you bring me along on your home viewing adventures, you're not just gaining a partner in the search; you're enlisting an advocate who will guide you through every step of the process.
From deciphering the secrets behind a home's curb appeal to unraveling the intricacies of its interior craftsmanship, I'm here to help you see beyond the surface. I'll provide the analytical eye and seasoned perspective to help you assess each property's true potential.
Remember, buying a home is not just about finding a space to live; it's about discovering a place where you can truly thrive. As your guide, I’m committed to ensuring that every aspect of your future home aligns with your aspirations and needs. Let's navigate this exciting journey together, ensuring that the home you choose is one where you'll not just live, but absolutely #LoveWhereYouLive.