Every buyer wants to find the perfect home. They want to find a home that has everything on their wish list that also fits within their budget.
However, in the quest for the perfect home, people often overlook potential liabilities that are present in the homes they are looking for. They tend to fall in love with something about the home and overlook potential issues. It is easy for emotions to get in the way, and this is something that you cannot afford to do with an investment as big as a home purchase.
Here are some of the potential liabilities that you need to be conscious of when looking for a home:
- Pools: While pools can be great on a hot summer day, they can also be a huge liability and pose a safety risk, not to mention a lot of work to keep up. Pools will cost your more money on your home insurance and will add to your water and energy bill.
- Older homes: You never know what could be behind the walls of an older home. This is why it’s vital that you get a home inspection, especially on older homes. Potential liabilities become even more pronounced when you are purchasing an older home and planning to renovate. Be diligent and have the home inspected thoroughly to ensure you are making a sound investment.
- Location: There is a reason why they say that location is the most important factor in real estate. The neighbourhood you choose can be a liability. This is why it’s important to research the locations you are considering to see if the area is in a flood prone area, frequently has power outages, and other potential liabilities exist. Choosing a poor location could also become a liability if you choose to sell.
It is always important to do your homework when buying a home. While people tend to focus on the positive features of a property, you also need to be realistic and assess the potential homes for liability to ensure you are making a sound real estate investment. Happy house hunting!