Are you in the market for a new home? If so, you're probably doing a lot of your research online. While viewing houses online can be helpful, it's important to keep these 6 things in mind while browsing our MLS listings. Here are 6 things to consider when viewing houses online:
1. The Location and Neighbourhood
Take into account the location of the house and whether or not it is close to conveniences like grocery stores, schools, etc. Our listings feature a map that is very useful for determining the exact location, as well as the surroundings of the home. Does the home have an alley? Is it close to a school or park?
2. Condition of the property
The condition of a house can be difficult to determine from pictures alone, so if you are interested, ask your real estate agent for more information or to schedule a viewing.
3. Try to ignore the current furnishings
Oftentimes the listing photos will still have the current owners belongings and furniture in them. Don't let someone elses old couch determine the way you view the living room. It helps to picture the room as if it were empty, or better yet filled with your own furniture.
4. Fixes and Renovations
If you are looking to purchase an older home, it is likely that you will want to make some upgrades over time. Depending on the scale of the renovation, keep in mind what it may cost to make this home exactly the way you want it if you are putting in an offer. This is also where a home inspection is crucial. A home inspection will tell you everything you need to know about the house, prior to the deal closing.
5. 3D Virtual Home Tours
Many online listings now feature an interactive virtual tour. We highly recommend you utilize these tours, as it can give you a much better idea of the space compared to photos alone. With these 3d tours, you can look around the house in a full 360 view, rather than a static photograph.
6. The front and back yard
Many people put a lot of emphasis on the yard when looking at homes online. Unfortunately, it is often overlooked in the photos. If there are photos of the front and back yard, pay attention to the details a bit closer. If the fence looks like it has seen better days, it can cost a lot of money to build a new one. Maybe it doesn't have a fence at all. If there is a shed, it would be good to check if it is included with the house, or if the seller will be taking it with them.
When viewing houses online, it’s important to remember that it’s not all about the pictures. The location of the house is key, as well as considering the condition of the property and how much work needs to be done in order to make it your dream home. You should also ignore current finishings and focus on what could be changed or updated once you move in. Finally, using a 3d virtual tour can help give you a better sense of the space before making an offer. And don’t forget to check out the yard – both front and back! If you're looking for your perfect home, take a look at our online listings – we have something for everyone.