When the time comes to buy a new home, there’s so much to consider. Thankfully, many have come before you and can offer tips to make the process less stressful and more successful. Here are the most important questions to ask when buying a house for the first time.
Some states that offer low income taxes make their money back with incredibly high property taxes. It’s an easy aspect of homeownership to forget about, especially if you’ve been living in an apartment up to now.
Ask your realtor about property taxes and why the property taxes are what they are. If the taxes are high because they go toward great public schools and local parks, you’re in a better setup than if the taxes are simply “high because they’re high.”
Ask everything you can about the location and take stock for yourself when you tour. A home located near a busy highway or out in the middle of nowhere should have a price tag that reflects that. Keep an eye out for homes in areas with empty storefronts—why are businesses struggling in this location? Finally, if you have (or are planning to have) children, ensure the school district is a good one.
The house is one thing, the location another. Even if everything else is perfect, make sure you don’t forget to ask about the neighbors. You’ll live next door to them for years, so ensure their lifestyle matches up with yours (if you’re afraid of dogs, a next-door neighbor with a dog may cause some strife). Knock on some doors and meet your would-be neighbors before you sign any paperwork.
Before you buy a house, make sure your realtor tells you about its radon levels, or hire a professional to test the home. Radon gas causes lung cancer, and it’s impossible to detect without testing. Keep you and your loved ones safe and have a professional give the house a look.
Now that you know the most important questions to ask when buying a house for the first time, take this big step and get the home of your dreams!