Deciding to buy a house is a big step in life. It is perhaps the largest single expense that you will ever take on (well, until you have children). You should go in with both eyes open.Therefore, I thought I'd post three of the most important tips that I wish I'd known when I was shopping for a home. These have come to me slowly over the past five years, but are no less important than those more obvious. Hopefully, they will help you in your home buying.
Look at the Landscaping
You may be tempted to buy a house because of its pretty garden, or you may not notice the lawn at all, but it's a good idea to match the landscaping to your needs. Complicated gardens and plantings require a lot more maintenance (representing both time and money) than does a simple lawn or patio. The smaller the amount of green surrounding your home, the less time you have to worry about weeds, watering, and general cleanup. An elaborate landscape may look nice now, but without the proper care, it can end up being a detriment in the future.
Likewise, the trees around your home can add significantly to your work. Leaves fall in autumn, seeds and nuts in the spring, and branches and twigs all year round. It is important to realize the maintenance needs of each before making your final home decision. Proximity can also be an issue, as summer storms may knock limbs onto your home or car.
Think about Heating and Cooling
Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature can also be a major pain. A lot of our heating and cooling money slips out the windows and through the ceiling. As much as possible, it's a good idea to check for leaks around windows and doors. Although many of these problems are easily fixed, some could indicate even larger problems.
The layout of the home can also affect heat levels. High ceilings look pretty, but they also provide a lot of space for heat to hide. This means running the furnace a little longer in the winter, and the AC in the summer. Likewise, multi-level homes can have different temperature zones, as heat likes to move upwards. Second stories are often hotter in the summer (both from the heat below and the attic heat coming down). Don't count on this in the winter though, because upper levels are naturally more exposed to cold as well.
Gutters and Leaks
Most foundation problems are caused by poor gutters and drainage. If you can, take a look at the gutter system surround the roof. Is it effective? Are the any sagging portions or debris? Worse yet, are plants growing out of them?
Some gutter guards can cut down on the amount of leaves and trash that blows in, but they are not always 100% effective. They can even make matters worse, as the holes intended for water keep seeds and particles in your gutters. This is particularly true of houses that have been vacant for an extended period of time. Check those gutters!
Final Thoughts
Home ownership is not to be taken lightly. It involves work, care, and expense. For some, it may not be worth it. For others, there's nothing like it in the world.
Look closely at yourself and any future plans before buying. The property must fit you. Before planning changes, understand the maintenance needs and daily rigors of ownership. Small projects are one thing, but an ongoing battle against decline is quite another.
Make as an informed decision as possible. I'll try to help when I can.
