search foreclosed homes in San Diego

No matter how much homework you do, how many lists you make, and how many San Diego foreclosures and REO's you look at, something's going to sneak up and surprise you after you've moved into your new home. You'll be standing in your kitchen (or basement or yard), staring at a dripping faucet (or rusting pipe or rapidly rising water table), and thinking, "Wow, I never noticed that before."

This, too, is a natural part of the San Diego Foreclosures and REO buying process. Fact is, it's exceedingly difficult to inspect every amenity and wholly impossible to foresee every eventuality. But if you approach San Diego Foreclosure and REO house hunting with a clear eye and a curious mind, you can certainly minimize many unforeseen surprises. And once you're settled in, you may discover things that will help you make an even more informed decision the next time.

Until that day, consider the following a tip sheet for avoiding regret roulette.

Exterior Issues

• Look at the house by day and by night, in good weather and bad
• Consider the lay of the land, including any slope and potential water runoff
• Note the path of the sun, location of nearby trees, and other factors that may influence heating, cooling, and amount of natural light
• Inspect the roof, siding, and gutters for age and condition
• Think about the landscaping, if any, and the potential maintenance required

Interior Issues

• Is the floor plan appropriate for your lifestyle (e.g., is the baby's nursery on the same floor as the master bedroom?)
• Is the basement dry, foundation solid, and/or crawlspace covered with a vapor barrier and free of debris?
• Is the insulation appropriate for both summer and winter living?
• Is the electrical power up to code and sufficient for your needs?
• Do the living areas get adequate natural light?
• Will your furnishings fit in the house (vis a vis space and style)?
• Is there enough closet and storage space for your belongings?
• Do the doors and windows work properly?

If, after considering everything from the surrounding neighborhood to the size of the bathrooms, you decide to make an offer, make it contingent on having a professional inspection. In addition to keeping subsequent surprises to a minimum, the inspection report makes a great roadmap for those repairs you'll eventually want to make.
 

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