For a first time homebuyer, the process of finding the perfect property can be both exciting and daunting. You worry about so much. The financials, market changes, mortgage approval. Then you have to go through an array of available properties to choose the right one, negotiate and close. If all these are not enough to worry about, you may also think about possible future life changes. This can be a very overwhelming process. In the mix of all this somewhere, you have to think about home inspection issues.
If you are blessed with a real estate agent who recommends a home inspection, that may be the first time you hear about home inspectors. You probably have no idea what to expect from an inspection walk-through. You may be afraid that a home inspection will uncover serious defects or structural issues, potentially derailing the purchase process or requiring costly repairs.
Firstly, note that the right home inspector is a friend who is there to make sure your investment is secure and worthwhile. Buying a house is a huge investment. One you don’t ever want to regret. You want your home purchase to end with a great experience and a move to a place where memories are made. Unfortunately, there are also nightmarish stories about money pits, lawsuits, and houses that never become homes. To that end, Super Inspector created a home inspection package targeting first time homebuyers.
“Would you let your grandparents buy this house?”
On one of our inspection trips, a first time homebuyer asked us an intriguing question while discussing their home inspections report, “would you let your grandparents buy this house?” Firstly, home inspectors are not in a position to give purchase opinions and we do not make a decision for our clients, thus, we did not respond to that question directly. However, we provide the client with detailed information in the inspection report. This helps our clients draw logical conclusions on whatever property they desire to transact on.
For the sake of this blog post, we decided to flip the question on first time homebuyers. Therefore, a question first time homebuyers may want to keep in mind while shopping for a property is “would I let my grandparents buy this house?” This is why having this question in mind may be helpful.
Why think about grandparents when buying a house?
You mostly love your grandparents. Therefore, you want them to be comfortable and happy. Because you know they have limited strength to carry out any major work, you do everything to make life easier and less complicated for themselves. Keeping that mindset, but for your own home purchase can save you a lot of stress and discomfort. Here are some important things to look out for when considering buying a property:
Location, Location, Location:
As the adage goes, “location is key when it comes to real estate.” Consider factors such as neighborhood safety, proximity to amenities, stores, schools, and transportation options. Would your grandparents feel safe and comfortable living in this area? Would they have nearby access to amenities that will help them live a comfortable life? If they won’t find the location comfortable for any of the above reasons, then you probably won’t either (except you are looking to go off-grid). You may then want to reconsider the location of the property.
Home Size and Layout:
Think about the size and layout of the home, using your grandparents’ needs and preferences for a specious layout. Would they, and thus, by extension, you, have enough space to entertain guests or host family gatherings? If they will be comfortable with the floor plan and property layout, you are also likely to be comfortable with it.
Property Condition:
Take a close look at the condition of the property, both inside and out. Are there any signs of wear and tear, such as leaky faucets, cracked walls, or damaged roofing? Would your grandparents be able to move in without the need for extensive repairs or renovations? This is the kind of information that a qualified, professional home inspector can provide a first time homebuyer before they commit to a property.
Check out: Our home inspection package, specially made for first time homebuyers.
Safety and Accessibility:
Consider safety features and accessibility considerations. Will you have to put in extra effort to ensure your safety and accessibility? Make sure you can comfortably and safely live in and navigate the property. Are there handrails on staircases, non-slip flooring, wide doorways, well-lit pathways, functional fire alarms and other safety and accessibility features? Remember, these are not luxury items, they could well be the difference between life and death, so don’t compromise on your safety.
Future Potential:
Think about the long-term potential of the property. Is there room for expansion or improvement if needed? Would you be able to age in place comfortably? Or would a change in life bring about the need to move again in the future? You may not want an unplanned life change to be the cause of your going through the rigors of the real estate market. What is worth doing at all is worth doing well.
Buy like an expert, not a first time homebuyer.
As a first-time homebuyer, it’s tempting to focus solely on aesthetics or price when buying a home, it’s crucial to look beyond the surface and consider the practical aspects that will affect your quality of life. After all, you wouldn’t want your dear grandparents to end up in a less-than-ideal situation, would you? So why should you put yourself in those situations?
In conclusion, the home buying process can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to approach it with careful consideration and a sense of humor. And perhaps most importantly, don’t forget the importance of a home inspection exercise. A professional inspection can uncover hidden issues and provide peace of mind, ensuring that your new home is truly a safe and sound investment for your family, including, if it comes to it, your beloved grandparents. So, would you let your grandparents buy this house? With the right due diligence and a thorough inspection, the answer just might be a resounding “yes!”
