Viewing Homes: The Do's & Don'ts
The buying process and viewing homes can be a daunting task if you don't know what to expect! Whether it be a condo, house, mobile or townhouse there are a few things that you should and shouldn't do when viewing homes. Many people do not realise that what they are doing is hindering their ability to make a decision and purchase the home that is right for them.
So I came up with some do's and don'ts!
Don'ts:
Do's:
If you have any further questions contact Sara or Katie Amos at thetwins@amosrealty.com or call 250-498-4844.
So I came up with some do's and don'ts!
Don'ts:
- Don't look at more then 6 properties a day if possible. After 6 properties things start to blend together and you won't remember what house has the amazing yard or large master bedroom. Even better, after looking at the first two narrow it down to which one you liked the best. This will help you ween out which homes you liked the best or didn't like at all. By the end of the day you'll have your top 2 or maybe even decide that none of them suited you so you move on.
- Don't allot a unrealistic time frame to view homes. It typically take approximately 20 minutes at the minimum to view the home and the property that surrounds it...sometimes the viewing can take up to 35+ depending on how much you like the home and how large the home and property is. If you rush through a viewing you won't remember much about it...making it harder to narrow down the homes.
- Don't wear shoes that are hard to remove. If you are wearing shoes that need to be tied and untied every time it can start to get tiresome. Wear something that can be easily taken on and off. Afterall you will be viewing approximately 5 houses and after the first 2 it may start to get irritating.
- Don't be afraid to go for a second viewing. If you really like this property but have narrowed it down to 2 homes. Ask your Realtor to make an appointment for a second viewing and write down all the questions you have for each home. You'll make the best informed decision and have the answers to your questions before moving forward.
Do's:
- Drive by the houses you want view before viewing. This will give you an idea of whether you like the neighborhood, distance to town or surrounding houses. Many times people will say no to a house becuase they don't like the neighborhood or proximity to town. It's best to take a look before going inside to help narrow down the list.
- Understand the price range you will be purchasing in. This way when you visit a home for a viewing you will not have unrealistic expectations and see the home for what it really offers. Otherwise, you can be dissappointed and the viewing will not go over well. To ensure you don't have unrealistic expectations, have your Realtor explain to you what to expect within your price range.
- Take pictures. If you want to remember the homes that you liked take pictures so that you can remember the details and "favourites" about the home.
- Narrow down the home search. While in the process of viewing the homes, narrow down which one you prefer every 2 properties. This will help you better decide and remember which ones you liked the best.
- Look past messy homes. You may encounter a home that isn't Martha Stuart clean...but that doesn't mean there isn't a great home underneath! Try to look past the mess and there may be a hidden gem!
- Ask you Realtor as many questions you have. No question is a dumb question if you don't know the answer. So ask them as many times as you need. That is what they are there for.
- Know the area you'd like to purchase before viewing homes. For example, if you are looking to purchase real estate in Oliver, Osoyoos, or Penticton...all three towns are very different. Visit the towns and understand what makes them different. Then narrow down which location you'd prefer to live in. That way you won't waste your time looking at homes in towns you don't want to live in the end
If you have any further questions contact Sara or Katie Amos at thetwins@amosrealty.com or call 250-498-4844.
