You have decided to take that first step toward purchasing a home and with excitement, you start visiting some open houses. Don't get too far ahead of yourself...

Your first call should be to The Jay Magnussen Real Estate Team. We can devise a strategy how it's best going to suite your unique situation to move forward and accommodate your lifestyle and needs. Buying a home is likely the biggest investment you will make in your lifetime and should not be taken lightly.    

While aesthetics are important, it's crucial to look beyond the window-dressings and staged furniture, look for yourself before you hire a qualified home inspector. While 

Here are some common problem areas to look for while touring an open house:

General Up-keep 

Is it clean or cleaned up? With many years of experience under our real estate belts, the difference between someone who keeps a clean house regularly and someone who has cleaned it up only to sell it is that the latter has likely not maintained the home and doesn't take as much pride in the home as the former.

Also look for cracks, especially above door frames. This may indicate that the foundation is shifting, which is a much larger issue than a quick patch-up.

Water Leaks 
Check the ceilings for brown stains and paint bubbling. This may indicate water infiltration that can be a costly fix. This will often be seen on the main floor ceiling, below an upstairs bathroom. 

Does Everything Work? 
The buyer may be including appliances but check if they are in good working order. This goes for the air conditioner and heating system as well.

Floors 
Observe if the floors are straight or if they are dipping in the corners. Be sure that laminate floors are not lifting. Depending on the floor type, it could be an easy or expensive fix.

Doors & Windows 
In winter, check for drafts and frosted window panes. This might indicate that the windows are not installed or insulated properly and will impact heating expenses. Look for water damage around windows from lingering condensation. 

Poor Drainage 
Make sure to ask about the age of rain gutters and check to see that they empty far away from the house to prevent water leaking into basements.

Grout & Caulking 
Check for deterioration and discoloration that may indicate mold.

Does it Meet Your Size Needs? 
The home may be beautiful and in good condition, but remember to be aware of cupboard and storage space.

 

With these things in mind, you can visit an open house with open eyes. For a more personal approach contact our Okotoks ReMax Realtors or contact our Calgary ReMax Realtors to have a private viewing of homes that match your needs. Our experienced and diligent real estate pros can help guide you through the process to find a home that is a perfect match!