Thursday, March 4, 2010

The hunt is on...

We are officially hunting for a house in the Salt Lake area. After renting for years we are excited to buy our very first home. We do however feel somewhat clueless, so for all of you homeowners out there we would love any advice you might have for us. Please comment and tell us things you love about your house, things you would change, things to look for and what to avoid. Any advice you could give us would be much appreciated. Also, if you live around here, what areas do you like? We are looking at Daybreak, Herriman, South Jordan, and Draper but are definitely willing to consider other possibilities. Can't wait to hear what you think!

10 comments:

Megan said...

That's exciting! Where is Sam working? That really determines where you should look because the commute can get hairy. We chose the Millcreek area because it's just a 10 min drive to Josh's work. We love it. If he didn't work downtown, we also love all the areas you mentioned.

Daniel said...

so exciting! I'd skip daybreak...for health reasons...

Daniel said...

that comment is from me marci my husband is signed in!

Ann said...

Last I thought you were going to try and stay in CO? Man I'm out of it. That is exciting! How fun. Only adivse I have are things you already know. back yard, garage, things like that. I'm actually not looking forward to moving back into our town home. I don't know what will happen but maybe if the universe is on our side we will be able to keep it as rental and buy another house. I like to think positivly! Good luck on your hunt!

Huntsmans said...

Hello, i know it has been a long time since you have heard from me...sorry! i do read your blog and you little girl is Beautiful. I read your post and wanted to let you know that my brother in-law is a relator in the Salt Lake area. i have no doubt he would be willing to help you, I bet he would just asnwer questions if you needed. Give me a call if you want his number 435-327-0653

Whitney said...

Ok, listen up. I have never owned a house, but I just moved into a new apartment so here is what I am telling you to look for.
1. Good plumbing - flush the toilets, see how long it takes for the the toilet to finish and if you have to hold the handle down the whole time! Also shower pressure - be sure to check it out!
2. Counter space, you'll need it!
3. Storage, make sure there is enough.
4. I strongly recommend buying a house that has good resale value, but also character. That will really make you love your house!

Good luck. The website that I used to look at for SLC is http://www.utahrealestate.com and
www.utahhomes.com

maugers said...

That's so exciting!!! I don't have much advice, what helped us the most was writing down pros and cons when we were deciding between 2 or 3 homes. They all have their good points (and bad), so that made it really obvious when we thought the decision was tough :) I love house hunting! Enjoy!

Brittney said...

I was raised in South Jordan and LOVED it there, so I am a little biased. Some things to think of: closet space; stairs vs. no stairs; vicinity to schools, stores, church, etc.; pantry & counter space; sprinkler systems. I'm sure I could think of a lot more too! I'm really excited for you guys to be buying a house and to be in SLC!

Tracy said...

Okay Janell I'm so sad u aren't coming back here but I have bought 4 homes over the past ten years and feel I may have some advice.

1. kids rooms on the same floor as parents.
2. kitchen open to living room so you can see the kiddos while u cook dinner even better the stove facing the living room.
3. laundry on bedroom level is nice otherwise main level and a SINK in laundry room!!
4. his and her sinks! A must!
5. closet in front entry no always there so look it's helpful to have one.
6. nice pantry in kitchen
That's all I can think of right now. Good luck!

Tracy said...

Just thought of a few more!!!
7. Counter space in bath and esp. kitchen
8. Screens on the windows and windows that open!
9. Blinds or window coverings that stay help.
10. just learned this in Co. which way the sun hits the house especially the driveway. It will let u know how long the snow will stay and how easily it will melt!
11. I love a covered porch in front or back.
12. The obvious not a 10 plus yr. roof, updated electric, and plenty of storage.
13. LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION the most important thing for resale!!! I've bought in not the best locations and the best and it makes a HUGE difference.
14. Ah, my realtor in Nashville says a floorplan that flows and makes sense is the most important thing in a home.
Good luck and keep us posted!