What you can’t see is often what matters the most

As you are looking for a home to buy for your family you come across so many beautifully decorated condos and houses. Often they look magazine perfect. When you actually visit them with your Realtor they are pretty impressive. That's because they are staged.
You may feel it does not make a difference. Yet, I see every day the reaction of people to it. Trust, me it has a significant impact. Professionally staged homes showcase every space, every room as its best possible version.
But when you are buying a home the true importance is what lies beneath the staging. I like to say that the things you don’t see are the most important ones.

The following are some of the questions I often ask on behalf of the families I help buy a freehold house. What’s the condition of the roof? Is it accessible? Does it have any signs of leaks? How old is the furnace? Has it been maintained properly? What about the basement? Is it dry? Is this house in a termite active area and was it ever inspected? Often getting answers may require a home inspection by an inspector hired to check these for you as buyers.
When it comes to condos the questions are different. Who was the builder? Reputation matters. How is the building managed? Does the specific condo unit have any Kitec plumbing (certain batches were highly problematic during a period of time)? Are there any restrictions and special rules in place? If a condo building does not allow pets and you have one that you consider part of your family... Well, it may not be the right one for you.
This is one of the most significant and larger purchases of your life. So it is important for you to know things beyond what it looks like. Being aware of potential surprise costs and other aspects that may affect your enjoyment is vital. At the end of the day, It’s not just a house. It’s not just a condo. It is the place you will call home.

#Remember to Say NAI/Yes to Life. Every Single Day.