12 Jul Buying A House You Can’t See In Person
There is a lot of risk involved in buying a home sight unseen, and the process isn’t for everyone. You never know when you might end up purchasing a complete mess, and you may end up out a lot of money for cleanup and renovation. However, there are several things you can do to save yourself a lot of trouble in the long run. With the tips listed below, you’ll be better prepared for your experience in buying a home sight unseen.
Don’t go this route unless you know what you’re doing: The home of your dreams may be one you’re not going to be able to look at in person, but unless you know what your’e doing, you should try your best to go take a look at the space before you put in an offer. If you work with a realtor who is local to the home you’re interested in purchasing, you can talk to them about the opportunities you may have to schedule tours of the home and see if there’s a way to work around your obligations or your location.
Ask someone in the area to go look at the home for you on your behalf: Once again, having a realtor on your side can help with this, but a realtor will be unable to provide you with the kind of information you’re really looking for when it comes to checking out a home you’re interested in buying. If possible, ask a friend or family member to stop by the home on your behalf and take a lot of pictures—or, even better, record a video as they walk through the home and notice anything they might want to point out to you.
Always get a home inspection: Whether you have someone taking a look at the home on your behalf or not, a home inspection is going to turn up any potential problems you might want to keep in mind when you’re thinking about buying. If the inspection shows up too many problems, you may want to rethink purchasing a home without being able to see it first. Then again, if you’re willing to put in the work it takes to fix it, a sight-unseen home may be perfect for you in your situation.
Ask for contingencies in the home buying contract: This is very important. If at all possible, ask for contingencies in the home buying contract. This means that, for example, if the home inspection returns with some sort of significant damage—such as major roof damage or foundation issues—you can withdraw your offer and move on to another home. Although some sellers won’t want to offer this option, for the most part, if the seller knows his or her home is in relatively good shape, you won’t have to worry about this request being denied.
I live and work in the West Valley. I know this area like the back of my hand and will be happy to assist you in finding the right home in a neighborhood that fits your needs and lifestyle. Contact me if you are moving or know of someone who is considering buying from out of town.