You have scrimped and saved, and now it is time to find your dream home. This is a huge investment, and whether it is a starter home, a family home, or a retirement dream, you want to make sure you choose the perfect house. You don’t want to be one of those homeowners that say, “if only I knew.”
Hidden Dangers
There are all sorts of hidden dangers globally, and you want to know about them before you move in. The first step is to have a home inspection to reveal any mold, lead paint, or asbestos issues. You also need to ask questions about the neighborhood. For example, if there is a dump nearby, has a landfill gas analyzer like those from MRU Instruments been used to determine its safety?
The School System
If you have children or plan to start a family, you need to look into the school system. Look online for statistics and reviews to get an idea of what to expect, but don’t stop there. Feel free to meet with principals and ask in-depth questions about transportation, classes, and extracurricular programs. You can also visit each school’s specific website to see pictures and read about student activities.
Neighborhood Layout
If your move includes relocating, you will want to take the time to get to know the neighborhood before you purchase a home there. Take a day or two to drive around. Think about where the grocery stores are located, and ask yourself if the drive is acceptable. Look for local doctor offices and go online to read reviews on local family practitioners, dentists, and eye doctors.
By doing your research, you can make your down payment while knowing this is truly the house of your dreams. A little research will uncover dangers, inform you about the school system, and provide you with all the information you need to make a wise decision.
