Realtor.com advises particular consideration to these often-overlooked areas: 

Nighttime atmosphere. Advise clients to view a home at different times of the day and night. "A community can change drastically when everyone is home from work and school," says Aaron Norris Group in Riverside, Calif. Norris says he speaks from experience. He learned after purchasing his home that a college students pack into hereby houses and party on the weekends.  

The commute. Buyers should test their morning and evening drive between any potential home and work. Does traffic make it difficult? Clients should know upfront if a home's location will require them to leave earlier in the am. 

Home owners association (HOA) rules. If a buyers potential home falls under a homeowners association, encourage them to review a copy of the bylaws. The association's conditions, covenants and restrictions describe regulations on what homeowners can do with their property. It could also give buyers some insights into the neighborhood, such as whether there are any rental restrictions. Some clients might not be comfy living next to a home that is rented out.   

Specialty inspections. The home may contain items that need to be assessed by specialist who go beyond a general inspections. If the property contains a septic system or solar panels, for example, a buyer may want a special evaluation.    

 

Blake Papalia 

Broker 

Home Made Real Estate