Finding the Right Location

^{The location of a home is perhaps the most important factor in the selection process. You may want to have two or three locations or neighborhoods in mind as each will probably have specific advantages.}

^{When looking at a home, it is wise to know as much as possible about the area. There are many ways of obtaining additional information about a particular location, including:}

1. ^{driving and walking through the area;}
2. ^{inquiring at city hall and a local library;}
3. ^{asking questions of storekeepers and people on the street.}

^{Use the following list of attributes to compare different areas in which you are looking to buy a home:}

^{Community Services}

1. ^{police and fire protection}
2. ^{method of trash collection, etc.}
3. ^{water supply and pressure}
4. ^{proximity to hospitals}

^{Streets & Transportation}

1. ^{street maintenance and lighting}
2. ^{proximity to major roads or highways}
3. ^{convenience ofo public transportation}

^Personal

1. ^{lifestyle of neighbors}
2. ^{privacy and safety}
3. ^{availability to recreational facilities, parks, libraries, etc.}
4. ^{proximity to places of relligious worship}

^Schools

1. ^{quality of education}
2. ^{proximity to home}

^Environment

1. ^{proximity to sources of noise, odor or pollution}
2. ^{availability of recycling services}

^Shopping

1. ^{proximity to grocery stores}
2. ^{proximity to drug stores}
3. ^{proximity to malls and department stores}

^Other

1. ^{zoning protections}
2. ^{property taxes}
3. ^{pending assessments or government actions}
4. ^{unusual deed restrictions}
5. ^{expected future growth of area}

^{Assessing a Home}

1. ^foundation
2. ^drainage
3. ^fireplace
4. ^floors
5. ^walls
6. ^attic
7. ^{termite and wood rot}

^{Exterior and Grounds}

1. ^{exterior walls}
2. ^garage
3. ^roof
4. ^{lot and landscaping}
5. ^{doors and windows}

^{Equipment and Appliances}

1. ^heating
2. ^electrical
3. ^plumbing
4. ^{hot water system}
5. ^{appliances and fixtures}

PLEASE NOTE: This information is not intended to be legal advice. Your licensed real estate agent cannot give you legal advice. If you have any questions about your legal rights or obligations, you should consult with an attorney.