Real Estate Q & A: what are some of the most important things to look at when buying a home?

Whether you have already looked at over 50 different homes, or you are just setting out on your house hunting journey, there are a few key things to keep in mind when touring each property. Although your emotional reaction can be an important element (after all, buying a home is one of the most significant investments of your life!), you should try to check that at the door, at least for your first visit. Focusing on the following 5 elements at each home viewing will keep feelings at bay so you can objectively evaluate the property.

1. Neighbourhood

There is a reason realtors are known for touting location, location, location!? Your community is one of the most important factors in feeling ?at home in your house. This includes access to public amenities like parks, restaurants, services, and schools. Dont forget to consider your commute as well as your potential to make friends in the area.

2. The Innerworkings

The internal systems; furnace, air conditioning, hot water tank, etc. are major factors in the efficiency, comfort and overall function of the home. These are elements that could require an additional investment to replace or repair after the sale if they are not up to date or code.

3. Finishes

The quality of materials used throughout the home should be in line with the asking price. Inspecting fine details like door frames, baseboards, and windows will ensure that you catch any areas where a builder could have cut corners.

4. Proof of past work

Ask your agent to inquire about past work done on the home renovations, additions, even new appliances. The previous owners should be able to present you with proof of any of these in the form of receipts, work orders, etc. Having a paper trail will a) ensure that work was done when stated, and b) that you are aware of any warranties for future repairs or replacements.

5. Ceilings

Roof and water damage are some of the costliest home repairs, so make sure to look up, way up at the ceilings in each room of the home in search of bubbles or any possible water damage. A?thorough home inspection?should also uncover any existing water damage in the home.

This entry was posted on May 21, 2016 by Jim and Iris

Words of Appreciation

“Thank you for the memorable sales and closing experience of finding the cottage of our dreams. A perfect fit for our needs.”

I & E – Lake Muskoka cottage buyers

“Jim and Iris Gardiner were both amazing to deal with. A truly professional team. They shared a great deal of knowledge with us and really shed important light regarding potential Island Cottage ownership – all the pros and cons. Not only did they sell our existing cottage in 24 hours for much higher than our asking price they helped us find our new slice of paradise on Lake Muskoka in a very tight market. We are thrilled with our new cottage and love being on Eilean Gowan Island! We would highly recommend either Jim or Iris for any of your Real Estate needs!”

J & D – Sold on Echo Lake and bought on Lake Muskoka

Jim did me a favor 20 years ago and I wanted to return the favor – I approached him and Iris at the cottage show and, even though I already had a real estate agent, he recommended a cottage property that I purchased and enjoyed for those 20 years. I therefore, tracked him down and had him be our agent in selling that property. Our priority was to find new owners that would be friendly and fit in well with the neighbors and Jim and Iris found the perfect couple Jim and Iris made the entire sale most enjoyable. The experience was so smooth and enjoyable that the sellers, the buyers and the real estate agents all got together for supper the following summer at our old cottage!

K & L – Lake Muskoka

It is with great pleasure and appreciation for me to recommend the services of Jim Gardiner and the entire Gardiner Team. Jim’s awareness of community by-laws and market related activities extracted incremental value for us when we were finalizing the purchasing agreement.

JB – Mirror Lake

Just want to tell you that you did a fine job for me on the cottage sale on Lake Muskoka. The sale has removed a huge load from my shoulders. Iris, just a note to thank you again. Money is in the bank!!!!!!

BJ – Lake Muskoka