Everyone knows that buying your first home is very exciting as you look for something that caters to your dreams. During your first go around you might be thinking more about what you think is perfect for things like space, layout, location and similar but there is more to pay attention to than just these basic wants. It can be hard to consider some of the other important things especially during a competitive time like we are in today, but here is some advice on crucial things to check out before you submit any offers. Structural IssuesLook for any obvious signs of a potential structural issue. Check for things like cracks in the floor or walls or even a screen room with a leaning wall. Structural issues can be pricey to fix and any sign of one should be thoroughly examined by your professional home inspector.HVAC system and PlumbingThese important home systems can be big ticket items to fix or replace so make sure you do a thorough inspection. Check for any recent updates or repairs as well as any signs of neglect like an old, dirty air filter at the very least. Most sellers will make paperwork available on recently replaced systems too so ask if they have it.Crooked fixturesCrooked or off-center fixtures look horrible but can also suggest there may be an issue that lies behind the wall. Was it sloppy electrical work or just a poor install of the fixture? If there are many of these issues you may want to start asking some important questions.Storage spacesEspecially as first-time buyers tend to establish some roots with a growing family, consider the storage space possibilities. There may be some wiggle room today but what about further down the road in about a year or two? Count how many closets you have now and compare that to the homes you are considering. You don't want to go backwards in the amount of closet space you have.Noise levelsMost home tours will take place during the day and during the week. So if you really want to know what the neighborhood is like then be sure to visit it at other times like evenings and on weekends. This will give you a chance to get a better feel and meet more neighbors when they are home and if you can hear them well or not.
