Tips on Buying a Home

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If you decide to search for a new home, be sure to consider these helpful tips.

• Evaluate the home's floor plan, yard size and shape and determine if there is enough living space, storage and bathrooms.

• If commuting time is important to you, take a "test drive" – get up extra early or stay at a nearby hotel and drive to work from the home you're considering.

• Pay attention to the listing date of the home. Sellers tend to be more flexible the longer a house is on the market.

• When you find a home you like, be sure to ask the owner about their average monthly utility payments and any other regular expenses.

• Be sure to review the seller disclosure statement to see if the house has ever had water damage and to confirm the age of the furnace, central air conditioning system and roof.

• Take the time to measure all rooms for your furniture. Don't try to "eyeball" it based on the current owner's furniture and placement.