Real Homemaking

Location, Location, Location! A neighborhood in which you will want to live for many years.

• Accessible to stores, schools, churches or temples,
• Convenient access to your work place(s)
• Showing signs of growth as a residential community

A price which will not mean too heavy a burden of payment over too long a period of time. Don’t forget to include all the fixed charges:

• Interest and amortization of the mortgage
• Taxes
• Insurance
• Utilities

Good Construction

You will be wise to get trusted expert advice on this, for much construction detail is hidden behind finished walls and floors. Get a trusted appraiser to give you a proper evaluation of the property you are considering purchasing.

An architectural style that looks good on the site and suits your personality and tastes.

A house that can expand if your family grows and interests widen.

• Is there an attic that can be made into a room or rooms?
• Is there space to put an addition later?
• Can the basement be made into a family room or home office?
• Is there outdoor space for children to safely play or for guests to be entertained?

A floor plan that is suited to your particular needs.

• How many stairs need to be climbed each day?
• Is there a front entrance that is separate from the living room?
• How are rooms connected to each other?
• Is there sheltered access from the garage to the house?
• Is there cross ventilation in every room?
• Is there plenty of sunlight where desirable?
• Is there a separate dining room or dining space?
• Are the bedrooms private enough and kept away from areas where entertaining or other late night activities might be performed?
• Are there ample closets and storage space for all your needs?
• Is the kitchen efficient with cupboards and work spaces suited to your requirements?
• Is there adequate wall space for your existing furniture? Will you need to thin out what you currently own, or perhaps buy some new furniture to suit your new space?
• Are there enough well-spaced outlets in every room or will the electrical system need updating?
• Is there enough space for easy entertiaining?

Check to make sure what type of heating and cooling systems are in place and will they suit your needs?

Is there signs that the basement or ceiling has leaks – your appraiser should inspect the basement and roof carefully.

Have an inspection done for termites and any evidence of dry-rot.

You may also want to have an inspection done for mold if your appraiser thinks it is necessary.

Write down your other concerns in a notebook so you don’t forget anything.