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Guam is an island that can easily take anyone’s breath away. It is not uncommon for those who have visited Guam to fall in-love with the island and even consider staying on a more long-term basis. Some have found a unique connection with Guam and have considered making it their home.
Everyone has their own set of priorities when buying a house. The buying process is after all quite complex, daunting and time consuming, so it’s easy to get off track. It can be very helpful to have a written list of priorities to guide you through the process, highlighting some features that you would consider important to you and your family.
Your realtor will appreciate your prioritized list as well, allowing him or her to fully understand which features matter the most. This will help him pre-eliminate houses that he knows won’t work for you and focus on those that will.
1. LOCATION
It is important to find a house that allows easy access to places you frequent the most (i.e., school, work, shopping, friends and family). Best to look for one with easy access to the main roads.
The location of the house within a particular neighborhood is just as important for many buyers. There are some who prefer a lot near the main entry, while others prefer to be tucked away further into the development. Some like to be in the thick of things and prefer properties near the park or pool, while there are some who like living in a nice quiet corner of a cul-de-sac. Discuss your preferences with your realtor and find out if specific locations bring a higher purchase price.
2. SIZE.
The size of the lot your house sits on matters. Sizes vary even if the property is located within the same neighborhood. The shape of the lot varies as well. Some are rectangular, or square, some are pie-shaped and others irregularly shaped.
The number of bedrooms and bathrooms are usually the indicators if the house is sizable enough for a buyer. Larger families will want more bedrooms and bathrooms, while smaller families will opt for less. Decide if a shared bathroom is an arrangement that is acceptable to you.
The size and style of the bathroom may be important considerations as well. Do you want a shower or bathtub or both? Jacuzzis are popular for relaxing, but some prefer a simple shower stall for easier access. You might need a handicap-friendly bathroom, or a sizable bath that could be remodeled. Consider all the people who will be using the bathrooms (including guests), this way you can best decide on the style and size that will work best for you and your family.
3. KITCHEN LAY-OUT
Many believe that the kitchen is truly the heart of the home. This is where food is prepared for friends and family who gather. Even guests usually end up hanging out in the kitchen, being the center of activity and entertainment, therefore size and layout are important.
Decide if more counter space, storage or sinks is what you’ll need. Perhaps a basic kitchen will suffice. Note down all your preferences in the kitchen, which will highly depend on your cooking and eating habits or whether or not you like to entertain often. Discuss all this with your realtor to help you find the best option for you and your family.
4. AGE & CONDITION OF APPLIANCES
Check the property listing and find out which items are part of the purchase and which are not. If most of the appliances and systems seem dated, you’ll need to be aware of the replacement costs. These systems can be rather expensive to replace, so it’s best to take the time to estimate the age and condition of each and every item.
Check the washer, the dryer and water heater, furnace, humidifier as well as the air conditioner. If there are fireplaces and wood stoves, it’s best to know if they’ve all been maintained properly.
Depending on your preferences and lifestyle, you may opt to keep only what you would consider as essential, as some people can do without some appliances.
5. AGE OF THE HOME
Older homes may have a distinct design and appeal, but they also may need more repairs and upgrades. Make sure that managing these projects suits you and your budget accordingly.
Building codes also change over the years. It would be a good idea to have a basic understanding of some of the main differences when looking at hoes built under a different set of rules. Your trusted realtor might have this knowledge or would direct you to where you can find the answers.
6. PRICE
Before embarking on your house-hunting journey, you must determine your price range and get pre-approved for a loan. Buying a home is quite an investment, and there is more to it than just the purchase price. Determine how all the related costs will affect your finances and make sure to stay within your decision on price range and mortgage payment.
7. INCENTIVE TO SELL
You will find that some sellers are more motivated than others. Some put their homes in the market but are willing to take their time finding the right buyer. It is with this type of sale that there is hardly any room for negotiations on the price.
There are times when a seller is highly motivated to sell because of either a job relocation, a need to move out of state or needing to manage only one mortgage payment. Your realtor will help you determine how motivated the seller might be and how to draft the offer and counteroffers to reach the best price.
Staying true to your priorities will be very important in finding the right home. You’ll be putting a lot of time and effort in looking for your close to perfect home or your family. It’s one of the best long-term investments you can ever make. Be sure to tap the knowledge and support of your trusted realtor in every step of the way.