Where to Look For the Real Dirt...

Okay, not geographically where.  Whether its Phoenix real estate you’re looking at, Tucson, or anywhere in-between,  even when you have narrowed your choices down to an area and to just two or three homes, there are sources of information that you may not have thought of, that can help you evaluate if a house is your ideal future home.  Here are a few of those sources of information.

Inside the House - Obvious, right?  But what are you looking for?  Besides the layout, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, there can be several indications that this house might have some damage that’s worth looking into.  Any water damage can be a sign of plumbing, drainage, or flooding problems.  Pest problems can show up as smells or even as damage to the wood. 

Outlets can give a quick check as to whether older houses have been modified with modern safety equipment.  Look for three pronged outlets and a test/reset switch.  Both are relatively new, so show there has been some attempt to bring the electrical system up to date. 

Before you buy a house, be sure to have it inspected by a reliable professional who can give you an estimate of what repairs and maintenance will cost.

Current Homeowners - Some home sellers provide disclosures to prospective home buyers.  Your real estate agent will obtain these if they’re available.  They will discuss the problems the home has had and what’s been done to repair them.  If there’s something that has been frequently repaired, it will likely continue to need maintenance in the future.

Even without a disclosure, homeowners can provide helpful advice.  If you intend to remodel, mention your vision to them.  It’s possible they had the same thought, but ran into some problem or unexpected cost that prevented the remodel.  Knowing if your options are limited is important.

The Neighborhood - If a neighborhood association is present, that’s great.  It means the area is a community and will likely act to increase the security and feeling of the neighborhood as a whole.  Be sure to visit a few blocks in every direction.  A noisy or smelly site nearby can be a significant disadvantage.  Also, talk to neighbors.  They generally don’t have a vested interest in selling the house, so will often talk openly and honestly about problems in the area.

The News - Is the area prone to flooding?  Robberies?  News stories will often show dangers you weren’t considering.

The Paperwork - Ask for utility bills, tax bills, and any documentation of improvements to the house.  A cheap improvement may not be a lasting one, so consider all costs spent and to be spent.

Working with a real estate professional to find your dream home, will save you research time and ensure you are armed with all relevant information to size up a home’s real fit for you.