What Should I Look for in a Home?
Taking the time to narrow down your house-hunting priorities can help your real estate agent provide you with a range of properties that meet your criteria, which increases your chances of finding the house that's right for you.
Important questions to ask yourself:
- Is this home the right size? Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms?
- Is the yard big enough? Does it have a finished basement?
- Is it in your general price range?
- What is the condition of the home? How old is the furnace and wiring? Take a look at the roof and the foundation.
- Take a look at the neighbourhood. What's the condition of other homes in the area? Does the community appeal to you?
- Is there good access to public transit and major roads? Are there good public facilities like schools, hospitals, shopping and recreation facilities in the area?
- Is this an older, more established neighbourhood or a new development?
- How do the municipal taxes compare to those in other areas? Are there any development plans that will affect the neighbourhood?
- Are there any zoning bylaws that might affect you - such as your ability to have a home office in your house?
- Does the property have the potential to increase in value?
Search Canadian real estate listings on The Canadian Real Estate Association's Multiple Listing Service.
The information in this article is general only; it is not intended as specific investment, financial, accounting, legal or tax advice for any individual.
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