House hunting? Be sure you not only look at the house you are viewing, but also be aware of what is next door. The same thing could be a big positive for some people, but a negative for others.
It could be a park, maybe a neighborhood ballfield… think about traffic, parking and noise from ball games or children playing… does that excite or concern you?
What about a gas station/convenience store? Again, it could be sooo handy… but the traffic and headlights could also be disruptive… could that be a problem for you?
Remember… you can’t change location.
Also don’t forget to look at the buildings next door.
When I was out with a buyer a few weeks we were busy looking at a house that had been fully rehabbed and was in great condition. But looking out the back, the house next door didn’t look to be very well cared for.
Then when I got to my car to drive off I took another look… not only did the roof look past the end of its life, there were notices on the door. They didn’t say ‘condemned’ but did say ‘unfit for human habitation’ which to me says the same thing!
How would that impact your use and enjoyment of your new home? Would it be an opportunity to do a rehab conveniently next door, perhaps a tear down… or bring anxiety over what is happening next door?
Everything around you has the potential to be a positive or a negative depending on your perspective. Don’t miss being aware of what is around you before making a decision to buy your new home!
Sharlene Hensrud, RE/MAX Results – shensrud@homesmsp.com
