Choosing a house can be a daunting, confusing and stressful task. It really takes a lot of time and effort. And why not, this is probably our most expensive purchase in our lifetime!
Just because a family/friend recommended the property to us or we read something on the internet about it does not guarantee that these claims are all true. It is still imperative for us to see and experience the property first-hand so we can check it carefully and make sure that we are getting what we pay for.
Just recently, I dropped by a Camella Homes project in Cavite to see their houses for sale. Take note that most of their properties offer mostly preselling houses and the agent would bring you to their model houses, both dressed up unit (with interior design) and actual turnover unit so you better visit both. I may not be an expert in checking a property but this isn’t my first time either. Based on experience, here are a few tips on what to do during house inspections:
1. Bring a camera/video recorder, pen and paper
It is typical for first time buyers to see a few properties before making a final decision. However, since it is almost impossible for you to remember all the details of each property you visited, make sure that you bring a camera/video recorder, pen and paper with you to take photos and notes of the positive and negative things that you have observed. You can also gather and keep the brochures or information sheets of the houses you have seen. All these would help you when reviewing and making your final decision.
2. Tag along a family or friend during your visit
I found this more efficient because even though I consider myself as a good observer, there are still things that I might overlook. It is best to have someone with you during the actual tripping so you have someone to discuss with later on. More eyes = more observation = better decision.
3. Prepare your checklist
First time home buyers may found themselves asking: “What am I actually looking for when I visit an open house?” I got you covered. Below are some of the most important features of the house that you must pay attention to.
House interior
- Practicality of floor plan: Take note of the size of property (lot and floor), number of bedrooms and number of CRs. Is the house space maximized? Does the layout match your interest? Each one of us prioritizes parts of the house differently. For instance, my preference of having a big living and entertainment room for guests as well as enough wardrobe for my clothes could be different from you. Measure the spaces to make sure your appliances, furniture and other belongings would fit. Failure to fit could cost you extra because of buying replacements. I know it’s difficult to visualize so I suggest that you compare both the dressed up and actual turnover houses for you to find out.
- Method of construction: You wouldn’t know this information unless you ask your agent. Is the house structurally sound? Will they construct it through traditional method of using hollow blocks and mixed cement? Will it be cast-in-place? Or maybe precast/prefabricated walls? Personally, I still prefer the traditional method so it was a relief that Camella uses that.
- Deliverables included: Model houses always look pretty but you must remember that these are professionally done by interior designers. You will not live in a house like that so do not forget to ask your agent on what’s included and what’s not. Is it already painted, what color? Does it include floor tiles, what type? What about the kitchen and bathroom fixtures? How does the stairs look like when they deliver it? Are there enough power points and are they strategically placed in the house? The Camella agent during our tripping willingly answered all these questions.
- Quality of materials used: Scrutinize the windows, door knobs, kitchen and bathroom fixtures, cabinets, stair railings, ceiling, partitions, etc. Are they high quality or substandard? Don’t be afraid to feel, tap, knock or open/close them. Good materials will last a lot longer and would save you money from having repairs or buying replacements.
House exterior
- All about roofing: Changing roofs is an expensive business so see to it that it would last for 15-20 years. Clarify with your agent what type of materials will be used for the roof, gutters and downpipes.
- Extra space: Aside from the lot for your house, do you have extra space for a garage, garden, laundry area, dirty kitchen or storage? Know the boundaries of your home as opposed to your neighbor’s. For Camella, I guess this varies depending on the size of lot that you will buy.
Neighborhood
- Features of the community: We may all not agree in terms of the amenities that we want to see in a community but I think Camella offers more than enough – swimming pool, clubhouse, park/open spaces, jogging paths, play area for kids and a basketball court.
- Ambiance: Take note of the traffic situation, noise level, safety/security, neighborhood restrictions, fire protection, garbage collection service and even pet restrictions.
- Accessibility to basic establishments: It is also important that a property is conveniently located near schools, your place of work, commercial centers, hospitals, church and public transportation.
Once you have done all these, you must ask yourself what I think is the most important question: “Does it feel like home?” Next time you schedule a tripping to project sites or open houses, don’t go in blind by knowing the things to inspect. Remember, spending 30 minutes to an hour of viewing a property that is going to be your home for many years won’t hurt.
Happy house hunting!