What to Consider When Shopping for Your Home
Finding the home that's just right can be daunting. We're here to help. Our Workshop will give you important skills that make you a better "shopper" and decisionmaker. Of course our goal is also to work together to find the most home within your budget. Below are a few reminders to guide you in your home search.

Type of House and Neighborhood

1.	Location - How's the noise and level of traffic?
2.	How far are you willing to travel to work?
3.	Is the distance from school walkable or a bus ride, and how is the quality of the school district?
4.	Is public transportation important to you?
5.	What are your preferences for the number of bedrooms, bathrooms or stories?
6.	What style of home do you like?
7.	Is the size of the yard a factor?
8.	What amenities are important to you?   Modern kitchen  Modern bathroom  Pool  Central Heat  Washer/dryer  Fireplace  Carpeting or hardwood floors  Garage  Storage

Quality of the House and Property
Next, as you tour various houses, keep a careful eye out for pluses and minuses. When you set your sight on a particular house, we encourage you to work with a professional inspector or contact NHS to provide an inspection. Here are a few very important things you and your inspector will consider to ensure a wise purchasing decision:

1.	Look closely at the foundation for cracks and loose brickwork or mortar. Are floors spongy underfoot or sloping noticeably?
2.	Check outside trim for splits and rotted wood.
3.	Open and close windows and doors - check for air leakage and proper fit.
4.	Look for signs of previous flooding.
5.	Scan ceilings and walls for cracks or water stains.
6.	In the kitchen, look for leaks. Also note cupboard and counter space. Check appliances that come with the home.
7.	Look for water stains and loose tiles in the bathroom - this may indicate leaks.
8.	See any signs of termites? (They leave behind small piles of wood shavings.)
9.	Be wary of painted interior woodwork that is badly chipped or peeling. If the home is old, it may have lead paint problems.
10.	Note the condition of gutters and downspouts, and whether they present drainage problems.
11.	List pros and cons of the condition of landscaping, plants and trees.
12.	What type of heating and air conditioning systems are used? Are they new and efficient or will they need to be replaced? If possible, ask to see energy bills.
13.	Does the electrical system seem in good shape? Ask to see the breaker box and find out its capacity. (200 amp service is recommended for homeowners  who may use heavy duty equipment on a regular basis, like power tools.)
14.	Is the plumbing in good shape? Look for signs of leaks around toilets and tubs.  Look for exposed pipes that may freeze easily. Locate where the main shut off valve is.
15.	Is the water system a well, lake system, or municipal? What are costs and common maintenance, if any? Is the water potable from the tap or does it require special filtering or softening?
16.	Is the waste system municipal or a septic tank?