The house is wonderful! But before you buy, carefully check the location to be sure this is the house you want to buy.

   Consider destinations
Where will family members go most often from this new location? How easy is it to reach those places from here? How accessible are schools, churches, grocery stores, medical care, public transportation, shopping malls, and neighborhood services?
   Be sure rooms have a view
What is the view from the house and yard? Is the yard right for your anticipated activities? What uses are possible for nearby undeveloped land? Is a new road planned?
   Check around the clock
Is rush hour traffic a problem? What will be the impact of special events like local high school games or church picnics?
   Crash test the driveway
How easy is it to get into and out of the driveway?
   Be service conscious
What utilities serve this property? Are the rates competitive? Do you want an all-electric house, or do you want gas or oil heat? Where will you get your mail? Where are the easements?
   Dig below the surface
Is the soil stable? Is part of the property on a flood plain -- if so, what is the history of floods on the property?
   Visit the neighbors
How will you fit in with the neighbors? Do people seem to be friendly? Are houses well-maintained?
   Read the fine print
If the community has special by-laws or architectural controls over changes to a house, what are the pros and cons?

Make a list of the positive and negative aspects of each property as you tour it. Assign priorities to important elements of the house's location.

Do you have home questions about a specific location? We can help. Call or e-mail us now, or click on "Ask Your Own Questions."