Questions on Tri Cities (Kennewick: loan, house, neighborhood)

[cgclark22]

Hi there. My daughter and son-in-law are thinking of moving to the area. They have found a house they like. It says it is on public water, but also says it is in the Kennewick Irrigation District. What does that mean? Do you have separate water sources for drinking versus watering? Do you need a water softener?

The house is in an older neighborhood of Kennewick and is on septic, however there is sewer up to the property line. I am having them check out if there is a requirement to get on the sewer and cost involved. Anyone know the best resource to check this out?

What other items should they check out? The called the Kennewick Police and the area they are looking at had only 10 calls to it mainly for noise.

Thanks

[silverfox]

Hi CGCLARK22,

Yes there are 2 water systems.

KID.......There is an annual O & M charge of approx. $120 per year (reviewed yearly) regardless of whether you are hooked up or not.

An additional charge ...LID O & M fee that is charged to homes that are connected to the pressurized KID. Approx. $100 per year whether water is used or not. Approx. $ 220 per year..period. Unless you are not connected.

A water softner is an option. It is fairly hard water but some people opt not to have the softner because of cost an maintanace or do not like the feel of softened water. Also the neccessity to install a water purifier for drinking water that has run thru the softner, unless you have it plumbed so it only takes care of your non drinking water. Be sure to check with a Pro if you decide to install the system.

The Sewer issue .....Call the City Dept of Public Works for starters.

Get a home inspection done before you buy....

Thats my 2 cents.

Good Luck,

Silverfox

[Houstonjames7]

if they get an FHA loan, the sellers will be required to pay for the house to be hooked up to city water before closing. if not the cost to hook up is whatever it costs a plumber to do it, paid for by the buyer of course. also the sceptic tanks would need to be pumped and capped off permanently.

[Houstonjames7]

as a 19 year local, i would not recommend living in the older areas of kennewick. the main reason being the homes in that area do not see the same appreciation annually as the rest of the city. also you can buy a newer home in a nicer neighborhood for the same price if you know where to look.