Looking through the images of Toronto homes for sale on a website can give you a good sense of what you’re buying. However, it’s not until you’re actually inside the house, do you get the full picture.
When you walk into a house, you may be focused on checking out a few key things. While that’s good, it’s important to make sure you don’t overlook any other crucial parts of the house. Here is a collection things you should have on your checklist at your next house:
1. Space
We’ve said it before in our previous blog entries – the kitchen is the heart of the home. If you feel that the kitchen isn’t the ideal size for you and your family and there are no options to remedy that situation, the house might not be for you. Additionally, you need to evaluate the other rooms of the home to see if it will be large enough for your family today – or your growing family down the road.
2. Energy bill inefficiencies
If the utility costs are high, there may be areas of the house that are raising the energy bill. Try to determine certain things like if the attic is insulated, there are any leaking pipes, and the windows aren’t leaking any air. If you determine that upgrades need to be done to the home prior to the sale, you can always negotiate for them later on in the buying process. Other out-of-date appliances can also have a heavy impact on energy and utility bills.
3. Leaks
Water damage from a burst pipe can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $70,000. Check the basement especially to see if there is any mold or leaks. Additionally, check the water tank to see when the most recent inspection was made. The integrity of the roof is also important. You may be able to determine the integrity of the room from the exterior of the home.
4. The Kitchen
It’s also important to evaluate what rooms are most important for you. The kitchen is the heart of the home and is typically the room that seals the deal for most buyers. Take the time to really picture yourself cooking a meal in the kitchen and ask yourself if you will be comfortable making and eating meals in there for the years to come.
Good questions to ask about a house
As a home buyer, it’s great to get as much insight as possible about a house. That’s why it’s important to ask the sellers or your agent as many good questions as possible. Asking the right questions could end up saving you a great deal of time.
Asking these questions should get you a better understanding of the neighbourhood, how much work the house requires and the right type of offer to submit.
- How many offers have been made on the house?
- Has the price changed much recently?
- Why are you looking to move?
- How long has this property been on the market?
- Are there any issues I should be aware of?
- When was the house last updated/renovated?
- What are the utilities like per month?
- What is the timeline to sell?
- Are there any great restaurants in the area?
- What are the neighbours like?
Hopefully, this article has helped better your strategy before you scope out your next house. If you are still on the hunt for your next dream home, take a look at the our featured homes in Toronto and the GTA or get in touch with Toronto realtor Frank Leo. Frank is and his experienced realtor team knows how to get people into the home of their dreams.