Touring homes for sale can be both exciting and overwhelming for first-time homebuyers in Massachusetts.
Knowing what to look for during each walkthrough is crucial for making informed and confident decisions when purchasing your first home.
What should Massachusetts first-time homebuyers look for when viewing homes?
The following are some basics but by no means a replacement for an experienced real estate buyer agent’s keen eye and a thorough examination by a licensed home inspector.
Before stepping inside, make sure the home meets your needs. Is the square footage adequate for your current lifestyle and plans? Consider the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and think about how the number aligns with your living situation. Is a garage critical? Does the backyard meet your needs? Ask yourself whether you have the time or desire to maintain the landscaping. A home that fits your needs today should continue to do so in the years to come.
While many first-time home buyers believe they will only stay in their first home for five to seven years, many find themselves living there for many more years. Does the home’s size, layout, and location work for you in the future?
For example, many traditional Cape-style homes have two bedrooms upstairs and one bedroom downstairs. Such a layout may work for a family with one young child, but it may not always be suitable when baby No. 2 arrives. Will the young children sleep alone on the second floor? Sharing a room is an option but not always feasible.
Finished space in the basement and attic is a bonus, but be sure the property has the storage you need. Speaking of storage, does the kitchen have the cabinet space you want or need?
As you explore the house, evaluate its layout and take note of any large cracks in ceilings, walls, or floors. Does the floor plan work for your daily routine? Will your furniture fit? Look out for ceiling and wall stains, and ask the listing agent about signs of water damage.
While you won’t be able to confirm whether appliances work, simply asking, “Are any of the appliances broken or in need of need of repair?” is a good starting point. While sellers and their agents often disclose broken appliances, the above question might elicit an answer such as, “The back left burner on the stove doesn’t work.”
On a cold day, you may feel the heat. A space heater in a room might indicate a location that is receiving insufficient heat. Is there a heat source in the bathroom? Occasionally, older homes do not have heat in the bathroom. On a hot day, you might feel the central air conditioning coming from the vents.
Don’t skip the basement. Look for water on the floor or apparent past water penetration, as well as noticeable signs of damage to wood from wood-destroying insects, such as termites. Open the door to the electrical panel to see whether there are circuit breakers or old fuses. Does the boiler or furnace look maintained? Are there installation dates on the heating system and hot water tank? Are there temporary support posts in the basement, or are all of the supports concrete-filled lally columns? Small hairline cracks in basement walls are less concerning, but wide or shifting cracks could suggest structural foundation issues. If the ceiling height is low, you will likely be unable to finish the space.
Often, homebuyers at open houses head straight into the house and leave after spending little or no time walking around the house. Home buyers shouldn’t make this mistake.
Take your time walking around the home and closely observing the exterior. Does the house have gutters and downspouts? Are the downspouts extended away from the home? The lack of or improperly installed gutters and downspouts often contribute to dampness or water penetration in basements.
While walking around the outside, pay particular attention to the chimney. Look for cracked or missing mortar in joints between the bricks. Crumbling or missing mortar can allow moisture in and weaken the structure. If the chimney is leaning or separating from the house, that may signal foundation or structural issues. Does the chimney have a cap? A proper chimney cap prevents rain, animals, and debris from entering the chimney. Is there rot on wood siding or window frames?
Your Real Estate Buyer Agent Should Help You
Importantly, bring your real estate buyer agent with you to open houses. A skilled agent will offer insight that goes beyond what you see. An experienced buyer agent can identify red flags, highlight positive features, and provide a professional opinion on potential issues.
Hire a buyer agent who will be your advocate, helping ensure you make a decision that fits both your needs and your budget. Having a skilled buyer agent on your side can make all the difference in choosing a home that is not only a good fit today but a wise investment for the future.
By no means is the above a comprehensive list of items to look for or a replacement for a home inspection; however, it serves as a good starting point for first-time homebuyers.
