This is the time of year...buyers start venturing out to look at homes, they want to 'see what's out there' and think about selling and/or buying.  After all the negative news the past few months, which doesn't seem to stop, and the new year starting, we may just see an uptick in housing sales.  No matter what the market, most sales in the KC area happen within the first six months of the year.

So if you plan to start looking around for a new home, here's a few tips to keep in mind:

1.  The first impression is very important--that starts with curb appeal.  However, even if it lacks something from the outside, go in and then form an opinion.  Curb appeal can be changed.

2.  Do you like the floor plan?  It's much harder to change a floor plan.  So check out the 'flow' of the home. If you feel it works for you, that's a plus. 

3.  Kitchen and baths--too big, too small?  It's often said kiitchens and baths sell a home. Even if you don't cook much, chances are you will still spend a lot of time in the kitchen..and of course, in the baths!.  How's the counter space? Can you load the dishwaser easily?  Can two people fit in the bathroom at the same time?

4.  If the house meets most of your basic criteria (ie number of bedrooms, baths, location, a few other 'must haves') -- try to look beyond the decor if you have to.  So many buyers can't do this.  They walk in, love the decor--and the house then looks much different when the seller's furnishings are gone.  Same thing if you don't like the decor: if it's cluttered, the carpet needs changing or the window coverings are outdated:  look past that and try to imagine the home with fresh paint, your furnishings, your own special touches. 

5.  Check the basement for signs of water, older HVAC system, check the eterior for wood rot, a worn roof, gutters clogged with leaves.  These are things you can change if you love everything else--still, get a feel for these basic maintenance issues.

6.  Bigger house usually means  larger utility bills.  High ceilings, rooms you won't use, poor insulation, old drafty windows--all will impact your heating and cooling bills.

7.  Look at the other homes on the block.  Are they well maintained?  Well kept yards?  Does the street have a lot of parked cars? Any rentals on the block?

8.  Finally....talk to the agent hosting the open house.  S/he's there to answer questions.  When I hold an open house, I'm so grateful (and my sellers are too) for those buyers who will take just a few minutes to say hello, give me their impressions of the home, what they like/don't like, etc.  Yes, some agents can be very pushy during an open house, following you around, peppering you with lots of questions.  That is annoying.  Do take just a moment to give your comments before you leave--they are welcome!

Comments on my blog are welcome:  email me.  Thanks for reading my blog!

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