Signs Your Infatuation With a Home Could Be Unhealthy
It’s no secret that the home-buying process can be wrought with emotion — especially if you fall in love with a particular property. But how do you know when your infatuation with a certain home is unhealthy?
Here are some warning signs.
A Bad Inspection
Cosmetic issues, such as paint and carpeting, are easy enough to fix. But what about an electric system that is one spark away from burning the place down? Unless the seller is willing to have the home rewired before the closing — or offers to pay for it — it’s best to walk away. Any type of structural issue can take your relationship with a home from bad to worse very quickly.
A Title Dispute
Title issues can take years to clear up, and the last thing you want is for some long-lost relative to show up at your doorstep to take claim to your dream home. Fortunately, title insurance exists for this very reason — but if a company won’t offer title insurance, this is a huge red flag.
The Home Is Overly Unusual
You want your home to be unique, but perhaps the previous owner took that a bit too far when he turned three upstairs bedrooms into a massive master with a bathtub right smack dab in the middle or remodeled the kitchen to look like something out of the 19th century. Eclectic properties can be difficult to sell — and even if you plan to stay for a long time, life circumstances can change. Not being able to divorce yourself from a property could complicate things unnecessarily.
Suspicion of Contamination
Many people love the charm and character of an older home, but houses built in the 1940s through the 1970s could contain asbestos or lead-based paint. Other environmental issues can include a faulty septic system or mold issues. These types of problems are not only dangerous to the health of your family, but they can be very costly to deal with.
Bad Neighbors
Neighbors who have loud parties, outdoor dogs that constantly bark, or rusty vehicles parked in the front yard, can take away from your enjoyment of life. It can also have a negative impact on the price of your home if you decide to sell — because, let’s face it, you will probably want to move. Scope out neighborhood issues by visiting at different times of day and night.
Price
If the house seems like a financial stretch, but you have yourself convinced that ramen noodles seven days a week is a lifestyle choice, you probably need to back off. Being “house poor” is not only a drag, but it can lead to financial ruin if unexpected expenses come up. Have a maximum price in mind before you start house-hunting.
If your home search isn’t healthy, or if you are thinking of divorcing your home, contact Sharon Held at Compass: [email protected].
This article was originally posted at https://medium.com/@yourrelationshipbroker/signs-your-infatuation-with-a-home-could-be-unhealthy-7c291177516a
Whether you are looking for your forever home or that diamond in the rough, Sharon Held understands that leaving or choosing your residence is a love affair. Sharon is as passionate about her clients as she is about real estate. With decades of experience, she has felt the passion and security that a safe harbor brings to life. They say that home is where the heart is, and it is true. From the first date to moving in together to saying goodbye, Sharon knows the feelings encompassed in choosing the home that is right for you. Sharon is on a mission to help you find the love of your life, in your house. Through patience, knowledge of the New York City market, and strategic planning, Sharon guides clients through the emotional and financial undertaking of buying or selling a home. Patient, responsive, and tenacious, she will not stop until she has made a match. With careful attention to detail and your desires and needs, Sharon provides the listings and information needed to make the right choice. Whether you are looking for an investment, short term, or your forever home, Sharon will work with you to find the one that matches you.