Important Items to Focus On When House Shopping

🏡 Introduction: Making the Right Home Buying Decision

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments of your life, but how do you make sure you’re making the right choice? There are key factors that many buyers overlook, and these can make or break your investment! In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most important things to focus on when shopping for a home, so you can make the best decision possible.

📍 Home Location

Why It Matters:

✅ The neighborhood impacts property value and long-term appreciation.
✅ Commute times, schools, and local amenities affect daily life.
✅ Future development plans can increase (or decrease) your home’s value.

🎯 Example: A buyer in Saskatoon chose a home near a planned commercial hub and saw their property value increase by 15% in just 3 years!

📌 Pro Tip: Research crime rates, school districts, and walkability scores before making an offer.

Structural Integrity & Build Quality

What to Check:

🔎 Foundation Issues – Look for cracks, water damage, or uneven flooring.
🔎 Roof Condition – Check for missing shingles, leaks, or an aging roof.
🔎 Electrical & Plumbing – Ensure the wiring is up to code and pipes are in good condition.
🔎 HVAC System – Inspect heating, ventilation, and air conditioning for efficiency.

🎯 Example: A homebuyer who skipped a proper inspection ended up paying $10,000 in unexpected foundation repairs!

📌 Pro Tip: Always hire a qualified home inspector before finalizing your purchase to avoid costly surprises.

Layout & Functionality

Think Beyond Aesthetics:

✅ Does the home’s layout fit your lifestyle? (e.g., open concept vs. traditional layout)
✅ Bedroom and Bathroom Count – Does it meet your current and future needs?
✅ Storage Space – Is there enough room for your belongings?
✅ Natural Lighting – Well-lit homes feel more inviting and are more energy-efficient.

🎯 Example: A couple buying their “forever home” prioritized a main-floor primary suite to future-proof their purchase.

📌 Pro Tip: Don’t get distracted by cosmetic updates—floor plans and functionality matter more long-term!

Hidden Costs & Budget Considerations

Budget Beyond the Sale Price:

✅ Property Taxes – Research the annual costs before committing.
✅ Homeowners Association (HOA) Fees – Common in condos and some communities.
✅ Utility Bills – Older homes may have higher energy costs.
✅ Potential Renovations – Factor in costs for necessary upgrades.

🎯 Example: A home listed at a great price but with high property taxes ended up costing the buyer more in the long run.

📌 Pro Tip: Use an affordability calculator to estimate your true monthly homeownership costs before making an offer.

Resale Value & Investment Potential

What Impacts Future Value?

✅ Market Trends in the Area – Research historical appreciation rates.
✅ Unique Features – Homes with extra parking, finished basements, or secondary suites often retain value better.
✅ Demand – Homes in high-growth areas appreciate faster.

🎯 Example: An investor bought in an up-and-coming neighborhood and saw their property value rise by 20% in just five years!

📌 Pro Tip: Even if you’re not planning to sell soon, always consider a home’s resale value before buying.

Conclusion: Find the Right Home with Confidence

House shopping doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you focus on the right things. If you need expert guidance to find a home that checks all the right boxes, call me, Jack Bouvier, at (306) 370-6179, or check out the links in the description.

🏡 Let’s find you the perfect home with confidence!