Most Annoying Hidden Home Defects

Almost every Tampa home buyer knows how to keep an eye out for the most major defects when making an offer to purchase a home; roof repairs, electric problems and worn-out carpets can add thousands of dollars in out of pocket expenses. Unfortunately, some of the most annoying hidden home defects are not the ones likely to show up on an inspection report. ..in fact, many have little to do with the house at all.

Find out the REAL reason many Tampa home sellers want out of their home then use it as a negotiation tool. Remember, value is in the eye of the beholder and what bugs one buyer may not be a problem for another whatsoever.

1. Noise. If a home sits adjacent to a rail-road track then chances are you have already noticed the noise but some sources of noise pollution are much more difficult to spot; from jet planes flying overhead en route to Tampa International to a bus stop in front of the house, find out what the noise level is likely to be in the new home before making a final offer. On the other hand, if you are relocating from New York or LA then the level of noise in most Tampa neighborhoods is probably easy on the ears and might allow you to make a competitive offer on an otherwise higher priced home.

2. The Neighbors. Sometimes perfectly wonderful people just don’t see eye-to-eye. The NASCAR fan who likes to work on engines every weekend might have little in common with the elderly couple who want plenty of peace and quiet. Those little personality differences can lead to big price reductions.

3. Bad Schools. Retirees and others without children can easily save an average of ten percent or more by buying a home with less than stellar schools.

4. Homeowners Associations. The democratic nature of most HOA’s occasionally creates a situation where the majority vote for rules that conflict with the personal goals of specific condo or home owners. Finding a disgruntled owner is an easy way to find instant equity when buying your own Tampa condo or home.

5. High Utilities, Taxes and Insurance. Despite a cap on owner-occupied homes, the rising rate of taxes, insurance and other utilities can create a burden on fixed-income Tampa homeowners.

6. Size Matters. Sometimes a home simply doesn’t fit any longer; Baby Boomers without children at home increasingly find a large home is more than they need while others just getting started with a new family might need more space to fit a growing family.

We are experts in the Tampa home buying process - whether you are looking at waterfront condos or homes for sale in Tampa.

Lance Mohr is a full time professional Realtor in Tampa, Florida. Please view our Tampa real estate and Dallas real estate websites.