Buying a house! Asking home owners the reason for leaving! (Houston: apartments, neighborhoods)

[recuerdeme]

Case out the neighborhood as much as you can.
Morning, evening and night time drive-bys.
Rush Hour tests.
Waving test (neighborhood friendliness)
etc.

[marykate1]

@recuerdeme,

I like the idea of Waving Test

[BamaTex]

Originally Posted by marykate1

@therewego,

Thanks! actually after looking at the house we wander around the neighborhood. The neighbors even invited us in and gave us complimentary sodas. We asked the neighbors about the area and they told us is is a great area and they have no complains.

As opposed to charging you?

[marykate1]

[stan4]

Originally Posted by BamaTex

When I sold my last home, this question was asked to us several times. In fact, I think most of the people who walked through the house asked this. I think it's pretty common.

Just remember, a reason that may not be worth it to you may be worth it to somebody else.

Right. We just looked at a house that had just been completely renovated to the tune of over $200,000. The owners looked like they were doing a cut and run by only listing the home for $650K. Why would they do that? Turns out the husband got a great offer he never thought would really come through, and they were headed to California.

I definitely agree with casing the joint, though. Come at night and listen for loud music at the neighbors'. Go over the weekend and see if you might live near party animals. Check out traffic time in and out of the place. Get a good inspection and if you like it, just buy it!

[marykate1]

Thanks Mr Stan4!

[travelguy_73]

Originally Posted by marykate1

@brownybaby,

So, should I ask the home owner to do the termite inspection? What is they refuse to do it because it might be expensive?

I don't think anyone else followed up on this, so I will. Home buyers are responsible for any and all inspections. You want a structural/mechanical inspection and a termite/pest inspection, and you want to schedule them as quickly after signing an option contract as possible.

[Supermac34]

I think in Houston the average time in a house is something like 4.5 years.

[Kandy]

We've had four houses in eight years. We have also been asked why we were moving everytime. I think it's very common. (relocation)

[marykate1]

>>>> four houses in eight years

This is insane!!!