10 Questions to Ask Your Locust Grove Realtor ® when Touring a Home
Whether it is your first time searching for a home in Locust Grove or you are a seasoned professional, buying a home is a big investment. While home style and paint colors can feel important, it’s worth noting that you can easily change the cosmetic features of a home. There are some things that you can’t change or are expensive to do. The next time you are out searching for homes with your Locust Grove Realtor ® here are some questions you should ask.
How old is the roof?
Sometimes homes have an original roof, but sometimes the roof has been replaced. Eventually, all homes will need a new roof since the average lifespan ranges from twenty five to fifty years (depending on type of material). It’s good for you to know how far into that timeline you would be if you decided to purchase the home.
What appliances are included?
Sellers typically leave refrigerators and stoves in homes. Most lenders require that stoves are in the home in order to finance the mortgage. However, sellers can choose to take the washer and dryer with them while others will leave them. New construction homes may or may not have a refrigerator-it depends on the individual builder. Make sure to ask your Locust Grove Realtor ® what appliances are staying when touring a home because it prevents a surprise later when you move in and there is no washer.
Is this home in an HOA?
Even homes in a rural setting spread out on several acres can be part of an HOA. While it’s up to you to decide whether living in an HOA is right for you, it’s good to know ahead of time if the home is part of an HOA.
What is the condition of the windows and doors?
Older windows can contribute to a higher energy bill. Taking a look at the doors and windows to see their general condition can help give you a better idea of when or if you will need to change them.
How does the foundation appear?
While a home inspector can give you the best answer to this question, a walk through of the outside of the home with your Locust Grove Realtor ® to look for any cracks might alert you to a potential issue.
What type of sewage system does the home have?
Some homes in Locust Grove have septic systems and wells. Others have public water. Septic systems and wells get are subject to inspection if you decide to put an offer in on the home.
What are the internet options here? Do I have cell service?
Most people need the internet in their homes for work or school. Different areas of Orange county have different options for internet service. If you work remotely, then looking into the services available at the home is important. Cell service availability also differ among providers.
How old are the heating and cooling systems?
Water heaters, air conditioners, and furnaces all have a finite life span. Knowing the age of these systems will clue you into their energy efficiency and let you know if you are at the beginning, middle, or end of their life spans.
Are there any easements?
If you have plans for the yard or acreage, it is worth asking your Locust Grove Realtor ® to look into any easements on the property. A shared driveway space could prevent you from using the land as you wanted.
What are the comparables?
To get an idea about how the home you are touring compares to similar homes on the market, ask your Realtor ® about the comparable homes of similar listing price. This way you can verify that the listing price of the house is at market value.
