Critical Things to Consider When Buying Real Estate in the Valley
By Ruthie Oland, Ruthie Oland Real Estate
Published in Northampton Living (March 2025)
When purchasing a home, there are several critical factors that often slip under the radar. Here are five important considerations that could save you from unexpected headaches and expenses:
Sewer Line Condition
Many homebuyers overlook the state of the sewer lines, which can lead to costly and unpleasant surprises after closing. In the past few years, a few of my buyers in Northampton and Holyoke faced significant sewer line issues post-purchase. To avoid this, consider having the sewer line scoped during the inspection period. Alternatively, look into purchasing sewer line insurance as an add-on to your homeowner's policy. This small investment could save you thousands in potential repairs.
Property Boundaries
Surprisingly, the exact location of property lines is often unclear during real estate transactions. While a standard mortgage survey will identify encroachments, it won't precisely mark your property boundaries. If you're planning to install a fence or need to know exact property lines for any reason, you'll need to pay extra for a boundary survey. This additional step can prevent future disputes with neighbors and ensure you're fully aware of your property's extent.
Gas Leaks
Gas leaks pose a serious health and safety risk and can be extremely costly to repair. If you detect even the slightest smell of gas in a property you're considering, don't hesitate to call the gas company for an inspection. A few clients of mine who purchased older homes in Northampton in the past few years had multiple undetected leaks. A thorough check by professionals can save you from dangerous situations and expensive repairs down the line.
Mold Presence
A musty odor is often a telltale sign of mold, which can have serious health implications and be expensive to remediate. Don't ignore any suspicious smells during property viewings. If you suspect mold, insist on a professional mold inspection. Studies show that all northeastern states rank in the top 60 percent for mold growth nationwide. Remember, visible mold is just the tip of the iceberg – it often grows in hidden areas like wall cavities and under flooring.
Permit Status and Local Development Plans
Always verify that all permits for previous work on the property have been properly closed out. Open permits can lead to complications during renovations or when you decide to sell. Additionally, check with the local town office about any potential changes in the area. For instance, plans for road expansion through eminent domain, as seen by one client recently in Longmeadow, can significantly impact your property's value and your quality of life.
EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR
Ruthie Oland
Realtor
413 923 2344
ruthieoland@kw.com
By keeping these oft-overlooked factors in mind, you can make a more informed decision about your real estate purchase and potentially avoid costly surprises. Remember, due diligence extends beyond the visible aspects of a property – it's the hidden issues that often cause the biggest problems. Working with an experienced real estate agent can be invaluable in navigating these potential pitfalls and ensuring a smooth, well-informed home-buying process