Tips for Buying a Home in the Fall

Fall is here, pumpkin-flavored everything is in the air, and you’re looking for a home. While the same principles for homebuying apply anytime, each season gives different perspectives and can bring certain issues into focus– ones that you might not think of at other times in the year.

I’ve put together a few tips for buying a home in the fall. These are things you’ll want to think about anytime, but especially during this season.

Don’t Get Hung Up on the Yard

Depending on how deep into autumn you’re shopping, the home’s yard may look a little… sad. See the yard for what it is– and then imagine how it will look with blooming flowers in the flower beds, planters on the porch, and the trees in the yard full of leaves. If you’re really concerned and serious about the house, you may be able to ask for a picture that shows the yard in the spring or summer.

Check on Maintenance

The fall is a crucial time for home maintenance. It also is the perfect time to ask critical questions about the upkeep of the house. What needs to be winterized? What issues might arise? If there are hard-to-protect aspects of the home– outdoor jacuzzis, pools, etc.– ask about the process and costs for maintaining these features.

Ask About Winter

With winter just around the corner, you’ll also want to ask questions about your community’s snow and ice removal. How do they handle storm emergencies? Are you responsible for clearing the sidewalk within a certain amount of time? What is the community’s resources responsible for? Are there any special laws or ordinances that you might not be familiar with?

See Where the Light Is

If you love natural light in your home, when you visit the house, make a note of how light enters it. How will it change throughout the year? Will your home get enough light throughout the year or are you in for a very dark season or two?

Check on the Community

Fall is a great time for festivals and sports. If living in an active and engaged neighbourhood and community is important to you, take some time to walk around the area and see what’s happening. Keep a look-out for flyers and brochures announcing community events.

If you’re currently looking for a home, what questions do you have? If you’ve bought a home in the fall, do you have any advice?