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have more sun and space, but higher utility bills.

‹ Drive down the street at different times of night and day. Are the
neighbors noisy? Is there a lot of vehicular traffic at certain times? Are
there unsavory characters using the street as a shortcut or hangout? Who
can see into the backyard?
‹ Find out the amount of the property taxes on the home. Although the
price of the home may be within your budget, the property taxes may
exceed the amount you can comfortably afford to pay. Be sure to note: the
tax amounts written on real estate websites may not always be accurate.
‹ Ask about utilities. Inquire whether there was ever an underground oil
tank and if it was properly removed. If the house is heated through an
above-ground oil tank, make sure you understand what that entails; many
people today prefer gas heat. Most people also prefer city sewer instead
of a septic tank. If you have a septic tank, the potentially expensive repairs
would be your headache, not the city’s.
‹ Has the house been renovated? Verify that all renovations were
performed properly and that the utility systems in place are capable of
handling the added space, so that the addition will be properly cooled and
heated when necessary. If you are thinking of adding to the home, double
check the zoning laws to make sure that it’s permissible.
‹ Search the State Police database at www.njsp.org for any nearby
registered offenders.

When visiting a house, bring along a camera to snap pictures. The first
picture should be the front door with the address visible, so you remember
which house the pictures are from. You may want to photograph areas you
admire, or potential causes for concern; It’s also a good idea to jot down
notes about each home you visit: houses begin to blur together surprisingly
fast!

Note New Number:
732-580-1389

50 | 2020 Lakewood Home Buyer’s Guide