There is nothing quite like the thrill of house hunting – the excitement of finding the perfect home, the fear of making the wrong choice, and the uncertainty of whether the property will meet your expectations. As Eva August, CEO of Century21, puts it, buying a home is not just a transaction, but a big decision with long-term consequences. You will spend more money on your home than any other purchase in your life, and it’s essential to make the right choice. With so much at stake, it’s natural to feel anxious and unsure. However, with the right guidance, you can avoid costly mistakes and find the perfect property for you. Here are eight crucial tips to help you navigate the house hunting process and know when to walk away.

1. A home with good bones is more than just a solid structure. Look for level floors, stable ceilings, and doors and windows that open and close smoothly. A well-built structure gives you peace of mind that your investment will stand the test of time and the elements.
2. Check for signs of structural concerns, such as hairline cracks, sloping floors, or discolored patches. If you notice any of these red flags, trust your instinct and call in a professional to investigate further.
3. If the property ticks most of your boxes, but has some minor flaws, consider it a green light. Compromise on the details, not your dealbreakers.
4. A home that meets your essential needs, such as location, layout, and natural light, is a crucial aspect of finding the perfect property. If it has 80% of what matters, you’re on the right track.
5. The area should feel like home, with people out walking their dogs, clean streets, and a sense of safety. A commute that doesn’t make your blood boil is also a must.
6. If you can envision yourself living in the space, it’s a green light. A house should offer possibilities, not puzzles.
7. Verify the paperwork for the property, including approved plans, zoning, and the sale agreement. A seller with nothing to hide will have everything ready to go.
8. A fair deal is essential, with prices that match the market and transparent costs. Never settle for half-answers or vague language.
9. A reliable estate agent is crucial in finding the perfect property. They will provide full access to documentation, explain the financial breakdown of the deal, and disclose important information.

A home with good bones is more than just a solid structure. It’s a foundation upon which you’ll spend the rest of your life. Eva August, CEO of Century21, emphasizes the importance of finding a property with a solid structure that can withstand the test of time and the elements.

“A home with good bones is more than just straight walls. A well-built structure gives you peace of mind that your investment will stand the test of time as well as the elements.”

Some signs of structural concerns can be subtle, such as hairline cracks or discolored patches. These red flags should not be ignored, and it’s essential to trust your instinct and seek professional advice. Red Flags:
• Hairline cracks
• Sloping floors
• Discolored patches
• Bubbling paint
If you notice any of these red flags, don’t hesitate to call in a professional to investigate further. Green Lights:
• Level floors
• Stable ceilings
• Doors and windows that open and close smoothly
These signs indicate a well-built structure that can provide peace of mind and a solid foundation for your investment. A Home That Feels Right
When evaluating a property, it’s not just about the physical aspects. A home should also feel right. This means envisioning yourself living in the space, with your furniture and belongings in place. Red Flags:
• Struggling to picture yourself in the space
• Feeling anxious or overwhelmed
If you find yourself struggling to picture yourself in the space or feeling anxious or overwhelmed, it may be a sign that the property is not the right fit for you. Green Lights:
• Feeling like home
• Envisioning yourself in the space
These signs indicate that the property has a good energy and can provide a sense of comfort and belonging. A Fair Deal
Finding a fair deal is crucial in the home buying process. This means comparing similar properties in the area, researching the market, and ensuring that the prices match. Red Flags:
• Prices that are too good to be true
• Vague language or half-answers about costs
If you notice any of these red flags, it’s essential to be cautious and walk away. Green Lights:
• Prices that match the market
• Transparent costs and clear documentation
These signs indicate that the property has a fair price and that the seller is transparent about the costs. A Reliable Agent
Finding a reliable estate agent is crucial in the home buying process. They will provide full access to documentation, explain the financial breakdown of the deal, and disclose important information. Red Flags:
• Lack of transparency
• Uncertainty about costs or documentation
If you notice any of these red flags, it’s essential to be cautious and consider a different agent. Green Lights:
• Full access to documentation
• Clear explanations of the deal and costs
• Transparency about the property’s history
These signs indicate that the agent is reliable, knowledgeable, and transparent. By following these eight crucial tips, you can navigate the house hunting process with confidence and find the perfect property for you. Remember, a home with good bones is not just a solid structure, but a foundation upon which you’ll spend the rest of your life. Take the time to evaluate the property carefully, and don’t be afraid to walk away if it doesn’t feel right.