I recently wrote a blog about the three things I look for in condos, but what about freehold homes? Well, there are many things to consider when viewing a freehold home as well, let's review!
1) Flow of the Home
Ever walked into a home and felt cramped and squished in the entryway? Now, imagine walking into a home with a big bright open space: it makes a difference, right? Well, this is why I think it is so important to consider the flow of a home! What I mean by that is does the layout feel comfortable for you, and is it a space you'd want to spend time in? If you love to entertain, is the space conducive to that? How are the bedroom sizes? Will the layout work for how YOU like to live, that is what is so important!
Here are a few things to ask yourself:
- Where are the bathrooms located? How many?
- How are the bedrooms?
- Is the kitchen functional for the amount that you cook?
- Is there enough closet space?
- Are the living and kitchen connected, and if so, is that a good or bad thing for you (think noise, smell, this need varies with each person)
- How is the basement? Tall, short, finished, potential to finish?
While renovations can be done, it isn't always easy to change the layout of a space without spending a lot of $$ so be mindful of how it is set up, and if it works for you!
2) Overall Condition
This might seem obvious but paying close attention to the overall condition of a home can tell you a lot about it! While you should always get an inspection, here are a few things to look at while browsing:
- Has it been freshly painted?
- Is there a lot of wear and tear?
- Are things falling apart (loose taps, handles, hooks etc)
- Does it look well cared for in terms of condition?
- Any signs of water? (an inspector can look closer)
- How does the roof look?
- Have any renovations been done?
- Upgraded or worn, dated appliances?
Paying close attention to the condition of a property will give you a bit of an idea of what an inspector may find and can help determine value.
3) Outside & Surroundings
Finally, make sure you give some time to look at the outside of a home! Take a walk around the perimeter, and look at the structure of the house along with its surroundings. Here are some things to look for:
- How is the backyard? Is it landscaped, and well maintained?
- Is it fully fenced, and what is the condition of the fence
- Does it have a deck, and is the deck in good shape?
- How is the porch
- What are the neighbours like? Does their property seem well maintained (especially important for semis and towns/rows!)
- Check out the parking spot (is it legal?)
- Is there a shed or other structure in the yard?
- How is the neighbourhood and area
- Any street parking nearby?
- Busy street or quiet?
- What shops or transit are nearby
There are many considerations that fall outside of the actual home, take a close look so that you make the best decision for you!
While I have highlighted three things I look for when viewing a freehold home, as you can see there are many items to be considered! Keep your eyes peeled, and make a second visit if necessary. Your real estate agent should also be able to point out some of these items if they are worth noting!
What do you look for when viewing freehold homes? Share with me below!
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