appropriate calendar entry. Research suggests that when buyers spend a longer time viewing a home, they are more likely to pay below the asking price.
BE THOROUGH
Related to scheduling adequate time to view the home, be thorough when checking it out. Open drawers, cabinets, and cupboards. Look behind furniture, and even under it to find stains or signs of wear not readily evident. Lift up rugs, if necessary. While this may seem rude, it’s not. You’re about to make a substantial investment and you need to know exactly what you’re getting. An artfully positioned chair could be hiding something, so feel free to look where you need to. Of course, if you’ve dismissed the home from the start, do only a minimal walkthrough or don’t bother with the inspection at all. But if the property has potential and is something you like, open every door and look in closets.
WHAT COMES WITH THE P MES WITH THE PROPERTY
Confirm what comes with home — e.g., whether the stands or fixtures are for the exclusive use of that home or if the owners will remove them. Are appliances, such as refrigerator and washer/ dryer, included in the sale? Make sure to get confirmation in writing if you decide that you would like to buy the property.
DON'T BE FOOLED BY S LED BY STAGING
Sellers use clever tricks to make a home more appealing. They can strategically light a room to draw attention from a problem or apply fresh coats of paint to cover water damage or mold issues. While you’re viewing the house, look beyond the immediate
39
Powered by FlippingBook