Buying a home can be a rewarding but a stressful experience. Here are helpful suggestions on what to consider when buying a home. This list is not to be used as an exhaustive list for all situations. If you would like more advice about a specific situation or unusual circumstance, please contact us to speak to one of our Real Estate Lawyers.
Writing an Offer
When you are working with your realtor to write an offer on a home, remember to include anything in the house that you would like to stay. Most realtors will have a standard list which includes the fridge, stove, washer, dryer, etc., but if there is something else you would like, make sure it is included in your offer. Agreements often include lawn mowers, furniture and curtains. If you are unsure, your realtor will be able to answer any questions you may have.
Home Insurance
If you are planning on having a mortgage, it is mandatory to have home owner’s insurance. Even without a mortgage it is always a safe practice to have insurance on such a considerable asset whether it is required on not. When you call to arrange home owner’s insurance, you will be asked for specific details of the intended home. For this reason, you should wait until after you have an offer on a home before contacting your insurance company.
Utilities
Once you have purchased your new home call to arrange the hook up of your utilities as soon as possible. Calling early will ensure that you get a preferred time for your appointment and that your utilities are set up on or close to your moving day. Remember that closing is not guaranteed to happen until the end of the business day on the closing date, therefore any appointments with utility service providers should be arranged for a day after closing.
Locks
Once you have moved into your new home, we recommend that you arrange to have the locks changed as a safety precaution. This will ensure that the previous homeowners or anyone that had access to their house are unable to gain entrance to your property.
Moving Preparation
If you plan on hiring movers, renting a moving van or making arrangements with friends and family to help you move into your new home, it is important to remember that final paperwork may not be exchanged until the end of the business day on the day of your closing. For this reason, it is best to make moving arrangements after the proposed closing date.
If you are in a situation where you are selling and buying on the same day, please look at our information on Non-Legal Things to Consider When Selling a Home. This will help provide a smooth closing on your sale, which will assist in a smooth closing on your purchase.