Don’t Be Fooled by Staging Sellers' and some agents are pros at making homes look irresistible. They’ll light rooms just right, slap fresh paint over water damage, or strategically place furniture to hide flaws. Your job is to see past the fluff. Imagine the house as it would be when empty: are those shiny hardwood floors solid, or is the paint hiding cracks? What Comes with the Property? It’s not just about the house—it’s about what stays. Are the appliances included? What about light fixtures, curtain rods, or that cute backyard shed? Make sure you know what’s part of the deal and get it in writing. Including that pile of wood if you want it! Keep Emotions in Check It’s easy to fall in love with a house the moment you walk in. But beware: early attachment clouds judgment. Approach each home as a structure to evaluate, not as your future “forever home.” If the foundation is cracking or the roof is sagging, those rose- colored glasses won’t help you pay for repairs. Visit Multiple Times A single visit is rarely enough. If you’re interested in a home, tour it at different times of the day. A quiet street at noon might turn into a commuter nightmare at 6 p.m. Also, pay attention to neighborhood dynamics: • Is it family-friendly or bustling with nightlife? • Are there barking dogs or noisy neighbors? • What’s the vibe during weekends versus weekdays? Consider the Overall Context The house doesn’t exist in a bubble. Ask yourself: • Is it near essentials like grocery stores, schools, and
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