If we subscribe to the "no substitute for experience" mantra, then a well seasoned agent is a home buyer's best asset. An experienced buyer's agent will actively look for signs of trouble in homes for sale. It's easy to follow "heart over head"; buyers tend to make an emotional commitment to a home. If it's strong enough, they can overlook issues that a sharp buyer's agent will note and bring up for discussion. Spotting signs of trouble in homes for sale is not learned watching videos and sitting behind a desk, it's learned in the field, getting dirty and educating the home buyers. Buying a home is a significant business transaction, treat it that way.
$1.5M Money Pit
A methodical approach to walking a home is always best. Over decades of appraisals and sales, the routine through thousands of homes remains consistent. Enter the room and scan each wall from floor to ceiling, scan the ceiling, doors and windows including frames, and the floor. Look for cracks, stains, blown windows, and any inconsistencies. It doesn't take long and it's a good way to be thorough.
Pull the Blinds Back
Always poke around a bit. Pull back curtains, open shutters, look under area rugs. Are there are issues around the windows or stains and/or discolorations under rugs? Did the sun fade the wood or did Fluffy prefer the carpet over going outside? Pet urine can deeply stain wood, possibly requiring replacement...which means more sanding and refinishing all all floors. Is everything secure? Railings, cabinets, fixtures and the like?
Pool Deck Disaster
Surface water control around around homes are probably the leading cause of trouble. Water is relentless and exceptionally damaging. When that's combined with shoddy work by owners that fail to properly qualify their contractors, issues multiply. This pool patio was a perfect disaster; a primo example of what not to do. This is a disaster that already caused damage to the foundation of this home. Easy to spot when you know what to look for.
Buying or selling a home is a major financial obligation, treat it like the business decision it is. There are no "do overs" and no "guarantees"; failure to pay close attention and fully understand the process can have major adverse consequences. Every single situation is different; buyer, seller, time of year, specific area, specific home, local and national economic conditions...professionals understand how to navigate all of this. Real estate is easy, until it's not.
ALWAYS USE AN EXPERIENCED AGENT WHEN BUYING OR SELLING A HOME.
The Hank Miller Team puts 35+ years of full time sales & appraisal experience to work for you. Act with complete confidence & make sound, decisive real estate decisions. 678-428-8276 and info@hmtatlanta.com Posted by Hank Miller on
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