For Buyers

What the MLS® Can ’t Tell You About a Listing In the movie, Good Will Hunting,

Matt Damon’s character brags to his therapist about all he knows about the Sistine Chapel. He rhymes off facts about the building’s history, age, artwork, size, height, you name it. Then his therapist, played by Robin Williams, asks, “What does it feel like to be there? What does it smell like? What are the colours like when you look at the ceiling?” Of course, Damon’s character doesn’t have those answers. He’s never actually been there. He has lots of facts, but no experience. What does this have to do with shopping for a new condo? Well, when researching a unit on the market, you can get a lot of great information from the MLS® and other online resources. You can find in-depth data on everything from the condo’s size and layout to the features of the property. That’s very important data. But, it isn’t enough to make a smart decision about whether or not to buy a unit. When it comes to a major decision like buying a condo, even going to see it may not be enough. That’s why working with a real estate salesperson who is experienced in condos is so important. We can give you insights that go far beyond the data. We can tell you more about the property and what it’s really like to live there. We can explain exactly how a unit will (or will not) fit your needs. We can provide advice on the kind of offer you could make and we can negotiate the best deal on your behalf. The MLS® is a fantastic tool and resource. Use it when shopping for a new condo. But, for deeper insights into a unit you’re considering, and its property, give us a call.

We Know Condos!

Tom Irwin: 705-328-5424
Max Irwin: 705-341-9109
Office: 705-878-9299
Tom.irwin@realestate-lindsay.com
www.realestate-lindsay.com


 

The importance of a home inspection

So you’ve found a house you love. Great backyard, gleaming hardwood, and the kitchen of your dreams. But what about the furnace? The wiring? Leaks in the basement? Before you buy, have the home inspected; no matter how experienced you are as a homeowner, it’s the best way to make sure you really know what you’re getting into.

A home inspection will give you the information you need to make an informed decision. The inspector will determine the condition of the house you’re thinking about buying, and let you know if there are any problems. (And the great thing is, the inspector doesn’t care if you buy the house or not, so you can be sure he or she is being objective, even if you’re not.) If you have to make an offer before having a home inspection, make it conditional on a satisfactory inspection.

If there are any problems, you have three options:
1. Walk away.
2. Use the results to negotiate a better price.
3. Give the seller a chance to fix the problem.

What happens during a home inspection?

The inspector meets you at the home you’re thinking of buying, and takes about 3-4 hours to carefully inspect the entire house for structural, mechanical or other issues. He or she examines everything from the roof to the foundation and everything in between, including heating and air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, insulation, roof, windows and doors, walls, ceilings, attic and basement. You can accompany the inspector as he or she goes through the home – it’s a good way to get to know the home quickly, and will give you a head-start in your home care “learning curve.”

The inspector then prepares an inspection report that outlines problems (breaking them down into major repairs that need to be done right away and areas that will need attention in the future, with accurate cost estimates for each), highlights good points, and gives you an idea what kind of maintenance you’ll need to do to keep the place in good shape. Make sure you ask for a detailed report that’s written in a narrative style. Never accept a verbal report or one that’s just a checklist.

How much does it cost?

Most inspections cost between $250 and $500. Think of it this way: a few hundred bucks could save you thousands in home repairs. It’s a pretty small price to pay for significant peace of mind.

How do I find a good inspector?

Look for a reputable, qualified company that has been in business for a while, can provide references from previous customers, is fully insured and offers guaranteed inspections. Inspectors should be licensed in building-related fields such as contracting, architecture or structural engineering. Your REALTOR® can recommend a reputable, objective inspector at your request, or you can find one by asking friends or by looking in the phone book.

When you’ve fallen in love with a house, it’s hard to see any faults on your own. Make sure the decision is a good one, and get it inspected so you can be sure you stay in love – for years to come.

Trademarks owned or controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association. Used under licence.

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