Andrea Reed, GRI

      More Buyer Tips!!

• If you have to resell soon, don't buy an unusual home.
  
  
• Even if the quality of a school district doesn't matter to you now, remember it might someday to another buyer.
  
  
• Expect lower maintenance costs with a brand-new home.
  
  
• Never tell a sellers broker how much you'll raise your offer for a particular house.
  
  
• When interest rates are low opt for a fixed mortgage.
  
  
• Pay attention to floor plans. Changing layouts of rooms later, can be costly. 
  
  
• Before you begin knocking out walls or converting garages into air conditioned living space, check with your local county building inspector or code enforcement to see if you are violating any laws or need to apply for a permit. This can be a costly mistake many people do not realize they are making.
  
  
  
• If the present owner has a title insurance policy less than 3 years old, you could have substantial savings by buying a reissue of that policy rather than a completely new one.
  
  
• Pay attention to the original listing date of the homes you inspect; Sellers tend to be more flexible in the price the longer the home is on the market.
  
  
• Buying a house whose style is uniquely individual will probably minimize rather than maximize its resale value because the house will appeal to a somewhat more limited number of potential buyers.
  
  
• If you think you may need more space in the near future, be sure the house and lot will allow for expansion.
  
  
• Redoing a kitchen is likely to be expensive. So be sure of what you need and want before you buy.
  
  
  
• A roof that complements the style of a home and is carefully maintained adds to the home's visual appeal and its resale value.
  
  
  
• Wood floors suggest warmth, quality and good taste and are an asset when it comes time to sell a house.  Using Pergo is less expensive than wood and does not scratch as easily.
  
  
  
• Plants, trees, and shrubs enhance the beauty and value of a lot and house.