Home Buyer Checklist

To ensure the lifestyle you want and expect… ask these questions before you buy:

Schools

• What schools will my child attend?
• Where are they located?
• What are their test results?
• What is the consensus of local parents?
• Do they have the special programs necessary for my child?
• How will my child get to school? If needed, is a school bus available to this location?

Work

• How far is it to work?
• How long am I willing to commute?
• Are there optional routes to take to work?
• If necessary, is public transportation available and convenient?

Location

• What is the immediate neighborhood like?
• Is it well kept?
• How is traffic?
• Are shopping facilities adequate and convenient?
• How close are hospitals and/or medical centers?
• Are churches/synagogues close?
• Are police and fire protection adequate?
• If important, how close is the airport?

Recreation & Activities

• Does the Homeowner’s Association provide recreational facilities such as:
  Golf , Tennis, Lake access. Swimming Pool,  Playgrounds,
• Are there fees and regulations involved for their use?
• What additional recreational facilities are close by?
  Public/Private/Semi-Private Golf, Country Clubs, Tennis,  State Parks, Hiking/Camping/Boating/Picnic Facilities,  YMCA/Gyms,
• How available are children’s activities?
  Scouts, Dance Classes, Martial Arts,  Swimming,   Music Schools,  Gymnastics,  Sports Leagues
• Are there children in the neighborhood?
• Are movies, libraries, sports complexes, museums and other cultural event locations available and convenient?

Homeowner’s Association & Neighborhood

• Is there a Homeowner’s Association?
• How active are they?
• Can I live with their rules and regulations?
• What are their dues?
• Is the community well planned and well run?

Sewage, Facilities, Public Water, Sidewalks, Septic Drainage

• Are the above items available? If so, is the property hooked up?
• Are there protective zoning ordinances?
• Is there any vacant land close by?
• What is it zoned for?