Taking the time to narrow down your house-hunting priorities can help your real estate agent provide you with a range of properties that meet your criteria, which increases your chances of finding the house that’s right for you.
Important home buying questions to ask yourself:
- Is this home the right size? Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms?
- Is the yard big enough? Does it have a finished basement?
- Is it in your general price range?
- What is the condition of the home? How old is the furnace and wiring? Take a look at the roof and the foundation.
- Take a look at the neighbourhood. What’s the condition of other homes in the area? Does the community appeal to you?
- Is there access to public transit and major roads? Are there good public facilities like schools, hospitals, shopping and recreation facilities in the area?
- Is this an older, more established neighbourhood or a new development?
- How do the municipal taxes compare to those in other areas? Are there any development plans that will affect the neighbourhood?
- Are there any zoning bylaws that might affect you – such as your ability to have a home office in your house?
- Does the property have the potential to increase in value?
Search Canadian real estate listings on The Canadian Real Estate Association’s Multiple Listing Service.