5 Must-Have Features When Looking to Buy a Home

5 Must-Have Features When Looking to Buy a Home

Buying a home is one of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking) experiences you’ll ever have. With so much at stake, it’s easy to focus on the cosmetic details, like a dream kitchen or stylish flooring, but I always tell my clients to think about the bones of the house first. Trust me—overlooking certain features can cost you big time after move-in. Here are the five must-haves I recommend paying close attention to when searching for your next home:

1. The Roof

The roof is one of the most critical (and expensive) parts of a house. Ideally, you want a roof with a 30-year architectural shingle that isn’t nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacing a roof can set you back tens of thousands of dollars, and the last thing you want is to face that expense right after moving in. When I’m helping clients, I always point out whether the roof is newer or will need replacement soon.

2. The Siding

If the home doesn’t have brick siding, look for hardy board, metal, or vinyl. Avoid older siding materials like Masonite, pressed wood, or cardboard, which deteriorate over time and can be very expensive to replace. Siding protects your home from the elements, so it’s essential to choose a home with durable, low-maintenance materials. You don’t want to spend your weekends worrying about peeling, rotting, or warping siding.

3. The Foundation

This one’s a deal breaker. A faulty foundation is an expensive and stressful problem to inherit. If a home has foundation issues that haven’t been properly repaired, or if it’s been patched and reinforced, it can carry a stigma that might hurt its resale value down the road. I always tell my clients: let it be someone else’s problem. There are plenty of homes out there with solid foundations—don’t compromise on this.

4. The Windows

Windows are easy to overlook during a showing, but they can significantly impact your energy bills and overall comfort. Original windows that haven’t been cared for can let heat escape in the winter and cool air out in the summer, driving up your utility costs. Replacing windows isn’t cheap—mid-range vinyl replacements can cost $30,000 or more. Look for homes with newer windows or ones that have been well-maintained.

5. The Mechanicals

The furnace, air conditioning system, and water heater are often taken for granted during the buying process, but they can be a financial landmine. A new furnace and A/C combo can cost $10,000 or more, and some companies scare homeowners into unnecessary upgrades or charge outrageous prices. A hot water heater should cost less than $1,000 plus installation—not $3,000. Pay attention to the age of these systems when touring homes, and budget for eventual replacements.

Expect the Unexpected

Even with the perfect home, there are always surprises after you move in. I advise all my clients to set aside at least $1,000 for repairs during the first six months. It’s not that sellers are hiding issues; homes are complex, and things just break. By focusing on these five must-have features, you’ll save yourself a lot of money and stress in the long run.

If you’re ready to find a home that checks all the right boxes, I’d love to help guide you through the process. Let’s make your next move the best one yet—book a time on my calendar to get started!

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