As you and your Realtor® look at houses, you may find several which catch your interest. Once you decide to make an offer on one home, you may go back and look at it a second (or even third) time. During your final look, before you make your offer, we have some suggestions about specific things to look at so you can make an offer that works for your budget.
HVAC System
One of the most necessary elements of a home in Florida is the air conditioning. As you get close to making an offer, inspect the HVAC system. If it has been well maintained, the HVAC company will likely have left a sticker on the inside unit with their contact information. You may also be able to find a make and model which can tell you its age. This is important because a poorly maintained or older unit may need replacing in the immediate future which could cost you thousands. Your home inspector will make sure the system is in good working order, but knowing a bit more about it may influence your offer on the home.
Water Heater
A water heater can last for up to 15 years. On average, many last between 8-12 years. Knowing the age of the water heater in your potential new home is important. If the unit is older, and if the home is older, it may mean a greater expense when the water heater needs to be replaced in the future. On average the unit itself will cost between $2,000 and $3,000. Installation can vary from just under $1,000 to over $2,000 if the current installation doesn’t meet today’s code. You may also want to note the size of the unit and whether it is gas or electric. Will it meet your family’s needs? If not, you may have to replace it before its end of life.
Gutters
You don’t have to be a roofing expert to know whether the gutters are clean. Admittedly many homeowners will clean the gutters before listing and selling the home. There are a few ways a novice can tell whether they’ve been regularly maintained. Look around the home. Evidence of overflowing gutters include washout of mulch or even a trench beneath the gutters. If the downspouts appear in good condition and there is no evidence of run-off from a clogged gutter or missing downspout, that is a good indication they’ve been cleaned regularly. Poor gutter maintenance can lead to roof leaks and damaged fascia and big repair bills.
Your Realtor® can ask the other agent involved in the sale for any information such as the HVAC maintenance company’s information or the age of the water heater. You can also attend the home inspection and ask the inspector for any insight.
If you are moving to the Tampa Bay area or planning to relocate within the area, Jason Duraj and his team at Future Home Realty can help you with buying a new home. As a team of experienced Realtors®, we’re ready to help you. Just call (813) 992-7771 for your free consultation.
