As homebuyers transition from casually browsing listings online to touring properties in person, one critical challenge emerges: discerning between a superficial renovation and a true quality home.
Dana Bull, a seasoned real estate agent with over a decade of experience, emphasizes that many first-time homebuyers often confuse what she refers to as a ‘flimsy flip’ with a high-quality renovation.
In the real estate industry, properties that have undergone only cosmetic upgrades, without substantial work, are often described with phrases like ‘lipstick on a pig’ or ‘glitter on a rat’s ass.’ These terms aptly depict homes that have received merely surface-level enhancements—such as a fresh coat of paint or new appliances—but lack deeper, genuine improvements.
As buyers, it is essential to ask the right questions to distinguish between a home genuinely upgraded for long-term livability versus one that has simply been made visually appealing for a quick sale.
Particularly vital areas to scrutinize are the kitchen and bathroom, where the integrity of renovations often reveals itself. Homebuyers should look for signs of do-it-yourself work, such as uneven cabinet installations, misaligned tiles, or shoddy paintwork.
A recurring concern includes verifying whether major renovations were completed with the necessary permits. Bull emphasizes that unpermitted work can lead to significant problems down the line, especially regarding resale value and insurance claims. Without proper documentation, modifications like kitchen overhauls or basement finishes could lead to costly repercussions.
She stresses that if a kitchen was renovated without securing the appropriate electrical and plumbing permits, buyers might face hefty expenses to rectify the situation. Furthermore, if a homeowner modifies the living space but neglects to go through the proper approval channels, authorities may not recognize these changes, jeopardizing future sales and valuation.
To effectively assess a property’s worthiness beyond its surface allure, Bull employs a methodical approach. She advises first-time homebuyers to focus on five critical areas during property visits.
1. **Exterior Condition**: Buyers should carefully evaluate the home’s exterior features, including siding, windows, roofs, chimneys, hardscaping, and landscaping. These components, while less glamorous than a newly added primary suite, can present significant repair costs if neglected.
2. **Age of Infrastructure Items**: Understanding the status of crucial infrastructure such as HVAC systems, electrical wiring, plumbing, and septic tanks is essential. Knowing what’s functioning well and what may be nearing the end of its lifespan can prevent unexpected financial burdens.
3. **Property Boundaries**: Buyers should walk the property line to gain a clear understanding of ownership boundaries. It’s imperative to look for any visible encroachments or structures that may infringe on property lines, as well as to inquire about any recorded easements.
4. **Assessment of Extra Spaces**: Areas often overlooked, such as basements, garages, or sheds, can reveal a lot about the home’s overall condition. For example, a clean and well-maintained basement could indicate that the homeowner took pride in the property and maintained it meticulously.
5. **Signs of Water Issues**: The presence of water stains, musty odors, or past flooding can indicate poor drainage or moisture problems. Observing the grading of the land surrounding the foundation is crucial; proper slope away from the home is vital in preventing potential damage related to water intrusion.
Bull believes that a successful home purchase is driven not by trendy updates but by the structural integrity and care that the previous owners put into the home.
It’s not uncommon for her to find hidden gems in properties that may lack the latest design updates yet have been extensively cared for by former owners. For homebuyers, these ‘homes with good bones’ present an ideal opportunity to add personal touches later.
In conclusion, Dana Bull’s insights serve as a crucial guide for first-time homebuyers ready to transition from browsing online listings to inspecting homes in person. Her expertise sheds light on the importance of recognizing genuine quality and the long-term potential of a home, empowering buyers to make informed decisions during the home buying journey.
Dana Bull is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) and Certified Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE). Along with her team at Compass, she helps clients in the Greater Boston area to navigate the complexities of purchasing a home, aiming to set them up for success in their real estate endeavors.
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