4 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Home

Buying a home is a huge investment and once you’ve made the purchased, it’s you that’s ultimately responsible for things.

To avoid any big surprises once you move in, make sure you’re asking the right questions at the point of sale. Here are 4 that we recommend asking before signing:

1. How old are major appliances or renovations?
When it comes to replaceable parts of the home’s structure (like the roof or windows) or major appliances (like the HVAC system or water heater), the older they are the more likely you may have larger expenses on the horizon as they’re nearing the end of their lifespan.

You’ll also want to look at added sheds, decks, garages, etc. and ensure you have the proper permits and paperwork. You don’t want to find out that after you’ve purchased, your beautiful deck has to be torn down since it wasn’t approved!

2. Is anything not included with the house?
While some items may seem to come with the house — like a built-in bookcase or ceiling fixtures — the previous owners may be intending to take these post sale. Make sure to ask if anything will be left behind and ensure these items are written into your contract.

3. Are there any water related issues?
With the amount of rain and flooding Long Islanders see, you may want to inquire about water related issues. Take for example homes on the south shore, if you’re close to the water, how often does the street flood? Did it experience any damage during Sandy or other storms? Outside of storm damage, has the house ever experienced a pipe burst or sewer back up? Knowing that these issues occurred can help you keep an eye out for it happening again.

4. What are the neighbors like?
If you’re moving into a new home, you’ll likely want to know what the neighbors or local community are like. Are they young, do they have children, how is the noise level? You may also want to consider driving the neighborhood or speaking with some neighbors yourself— this could provide you with insight the seller may not disclose.

For more questions you should ask, read our previous blog here»

Then, once your sale is complete and you start to learn more about things such as property taxes, connect with us to learn how we can help! Since 1990 we have been helping homeowners in Nassau and Suffolk County reduce their property taxes, and we'd love to be able to help you next!

Things to Consider Before Buying a Home

Buying a home of any kind is always a significant commitment. Whether you’re fresh out of school and searching for your “starter home” or you’re ready to upgrade to a more substantial property — the search for a house can be quite daunting (not to mention a tad overwhelming, too).

However, if you want to make your search a home successful, consider the below first:

Finances
If you want to enjoy smooth sailing during your home search, then you need to evaluate your financial situation beforehand. First and foremost, take a look at your credit score, outstanding debt, or loans, as well as monthly expenses. Additionally, this is also the time to look around for lenders and understand the pre-approval process.

Consider Hidden Costs
While you may be prepared to take on mortgage payments, keep in mind that there are a lot of fees that come with purchasing property — inspections, property taxes, insurance, repairs,
and more! Here’s more insight into 11of the most common hidden costs, and for property tax questions, we’ve got you covered.

Lifestyle Aims and Beyond
Jotting things down can do a lot for people who are preparing to go on home quests; this way, you can better identify all of the things that matter the most. For those with families, the neighborhood and school system may be non-negotiable — while for others, being walking distance to the LIRR would be ideal.

In addition to the above, you'll want to start looking for local realtors who know your area — the better they know the area, the more likely they'll be able to offer insights from not only a housing perspective but a community perspective as well.

Looking for a Helping Hand?

At P.T.R.C., Inc., we’ve made it our mission to ensure our clients pay the lowest amount in property tax as required by law. Since 1990, we’ve been recognized as fair and honest, and our clients benefit from the close working relationships we’ve established with the assessing units over the years.

Related Blog: Steps You Must Take NOW If You Want to Buy

New Breweries on Long Island

Happy International Beer Day everyone! As you may know, the craft beer industry is continuing to expand across Long Island with new breweries and taprooms opening year-over-year.

Just take a look at what 2019 has already brought us:

Patchogue Beer Project - Patchogue
A new state-of-the-art micro brew operation opened earlier this year in Patchogue, the Patchogue Beer Project. With no kegs and the entire brewing process visible to customers, you’ll really feel like you’re in the middle of it all!

Secatogue Brewing Co. - West Islip
After a few years of planning, Secatogue Brewing Co. opened in May right in West Islip where founder Ken Srubinski grew up. Fun fact: Its name comes from the Native American tribe who inhabited the area centuries ago! And for some behind-the-scenes intel, take a look at Ken’s Edible Long Island interview here»

27A Brewing Company - Lindenhurst
Another hometown story, the founders of this craft brewery are Lindenhurst High School sweethearts and lifelong Lindenhurst residents. 27A is slated to open this month with a soft opening this weekend!

Some other breweries to keep your eye on? 

• Bright Eye Beer Company — Slated to open early this fall in Long Beach across from the LIRR.
• Sand City Brewing Co — Established in Northport October 2015, their next location is set for Lindenhurst sometime next Spring.

And for more breweries on Long Island, take a look at our previous blog here!

At P.T.R.C., Inc., we’ve made it our mission to ensure our clients pay the lowest amount in property tax as required by law. Since 1990, we’ve been recognized as fair and honest, and our clients benefit from the close working relationships we’ve established with the assessing units over the years.