Ralph
Reagan,CSP
What Kind of Home do you Need?
Before we get out and start looking at homes, it's a good idea to determine what you want in a house(or what you need). It causes us to be able to "weed out" homes that just don't cut it.
Where do you want to live?
How far from work? Close to family,friends? (Far?) Do you need schools? How important is shopping? Medical facilities? Entertainment? Traffic?(Esp. off Cliffdale Rd and Hope Mills Rd.) Let's find the neighbor hood then the house that most closely meets you needs, wants, priorities....
How long do you expect to be in your house?
For example, if you plan on living in your first home for only a few years and moving before you have children (or onto the next duty station). Then resale value may be the big issue. If you plan on staying a while(10 years) then schools, having a family, schools, and size will have a higher priority.
What do you don't (or do) like about where you are living?
Making a list of what you definitely do not want in a home will help us find that "perfect" home quicker!!
The Home Inspection
You have the right to inspect the home you've put an offer on. I advise you to get a home inspection. it's the best way to find out about "surprises"(Remember it is likely that they will be "surprises" to the seller too.) Home inspections are an extensive examination of the home from the shingles to the foundation.
How do I find my inspector?
In North Carolina a REALTOR(r) is not allowed to "steer" a client to any particular home inspector. I advise you to talk to several home inspectors and make your own mind up who will do the best job.
What about the problems that the Home Inspector finds?
The home inspector works for the buyer. The inspector will detail any concerns in a detailed report after receiving the concerns listed I will confer with you and list the repairs needing done by the seller.
What does a home inspection cost?
Usually in the Cumberland County area home inspections cost $175 to $250 depending on size and inspector.