We covered a little bit of what we do a few weeks ago, and you may remember that we’ve expanded to real estate, too. Today we thought we’d introduce you to our new series on viewing and buying a home where we’ll be sharing a few snippets to help! We want to share our experience and knowledge from handling home renovations as designers, and as a licensed Real Estate agent with Benchmark realty here in Nashville. If you’re moving to Nashville, or in and around Nashville/Franklin reach out to Jamin (jamin @ thehandmadehome.net), we’re happy to help you find that perfect home!
The home buying process is a wonderful experience if you have the right knowledge and game plan. So whether you’re buying something now or in the future {or just want to look extra smart at that next friend gathering} follow along as we cover some things you’ll want to know! And of course, if you have a burning question you’d like answered, shoot it our way and we’ll do our best to help. We’d love to hear from you. Let’s dive in!
Here are a few things coming up… and this is just the beginning.
- The Sight Test
- The Feel Test
- Adding Value
- The Electrical Panel
- The Crawlspace
- Drainage
We survived the crazy markets of late 2020, 2021, and early 2022. Things are now changing and we have without a doubt, entered a buyer’s market. These are things that on the surface may seem basic, but the average person or real estate agent might not think about.
The Sight Test
Who hasn’t browsed listings out of sheer nosiness or curiosity in their downtime? I think everyone’s the most familiar with this one. It’s the most widely known and used tool by agents and potential homebuyers, and it’s a great starting point that can help you narrow down your search. It can save a ton of time, and it’s your first filter when beginning. (We’re assuming here you already sorted by the price you want to pay.)
The question you’re asking is: “How does the home present on paper or as a drive-by”? Remember this is your starting point so we aren’t getting to far into the weeds of the home, yet. We’re simply concerned with that initial presentation.
In this first step, we’re filtering homes to go see in person.
So what are we looking for in the sight test? Here are a few things you may not have considered.
• Size – There might be more than meets the eye.
The first thing we need to know is does this home meet the square footage and bedroom/bathroom needs we’re looking for? If not, that doesn’t mean we completely rule it out.
We’ll cover why in another post, but it’s something to consider: We purchased a 1600 square foot home that was way too small for our family. We’ve turned it into 3700 square feet, and the value has skyrocketed. More on that when we cover adding value.
For simplicity’s sake though, we want to set aside for the moment, not throw away, the homes that don’t meet the requirements. Because just like our own 1600 square feet, there might be more than meets the eye. {Hint: It can also be all about potential.}
• Style – Two sides to this coin.
A good thing to remember is that most agents will hire a professional photographer, so the photos you’re looking at are not a real-life view. They’re wide-angled, edited, and it’s definitely their way of putting their best foot forward. So don’t let these photos distract you too much. Use them as a guide for a simple appeal of the style and condition of the home.
Does this home have an updated style? A style you like? How dated is it? If it is dated or not your style can you live with it until you change it?
On the flip side, we tend to come at it from the different angle. We say don’t let outdated style deter you. Cosmetic things can be changed, and it’s amazing what something as simple as a fresh coat of paint or a few new lights can do for a space. {See: This is where it helps to have the assistance of an experienced eye to see those good bones and all things potential.}
• Age – A few things to consider.
You’ll want to know when the was home built. There are several things that come into play with the age of the home.
For example: Will you need to test for lead paint? If the home was built before 1978, the answer is yes.
If the home is older, you’ll want to keep in mind things that might need replacing: HVAC, roof, windows, and more. On the flip side, there are positives to an older home. They tend to have more established trees, and construction was a little better back in the day. If you’re in or near a city, they tend to be on larger lots, which ushers in the next point.
• Lot – Pros and cons.
All listings will tell you the lot size, but some will include the plat map as well. If not, you can pull that from public records. Why does this matter? Well, there is the obvious question of yard size. You might want a small yard because you don’t want to maintain it, or you might want a large yard for the kids or dogs.
You’ll also want to know the setbacks of the yard, are there any easements, wetlands, flood areas, or other special conditions. All of these things can affect home value and all can affect potential future value. More on that in a later post. Some of this might be in the listing notes, and all of it will be on the plat map.
• HOA – Which is a better fit for you?
Is there an HOA and do you want one? There are advantages and disadvantages here and neither is better than the other. One is just more right for you.
What are the fees and what do the fees cover? What are the HOA covenants and are they super strict or lenient? Again no right or wrong, just a preference for you. But if you don’t want an HOA and you end up with a strict one, you’ll regret that purchase.
• Conveyance – What does that mean and why should you consider it?
That’s a fancy word for: “does anything not stay with the house”. The listing will tell you what does not convey with the home, so if you love the drapes or that amazing chandelier, check to make sure it isn’t listed as something that doesn’t convey.
Same with appliances or playsets: you don’t want a child excited about that pirate ship playhouse that doesn’t convey with the home. Mainly just read the list of things that will not convey so you don’t allow those things to factor into the decision process or disappoint a child.
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With the sight test you should be able to narrow down some of your favorites that you want to go view, but remember don’t fully discard any of them. See: our house. It was number 12 of 12 on our list, and 6 + years later we are still in love with the decision. {Even when mostly everyone else thought we were a little crazy.}
Up next: We’re ready for the feel test, so check back in next week, and don’t forget if you have any questions drop us a comment below, or if you want to keep it private, shoot us an email! And if we can help you buy/sell or renovate a home, we’d be honored to work with you. Be sure to drop us a line.
Have an inspired day!
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