If you’re looking at homes for sale in Frisco TX, you shouldn’t wait for a professional home inspector to assess the house. Whether you have a private appointment or attend an open house, spend some time checking out the structural components of the home to form your own opinion on its livability. You’ll also need to spend time compiling a list of the features you need in a home and those that are optional. Here are three categories that should be on your home buying checklist. These features and more appear on the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website checklist.

1. Look for all the Built-In Comforts You Want in a Home

You can always add furniture, drapes, carpet and other items to personalize your house after you’ve moved in, but ideal homes for sale in Frisco TX should have many pre-existing comforts that satisfy your lifestyle expectations. Check the home’s floorplan. Is there enough space to move around in the kitchen while preparing meals? A small kitchen might be fine for newlyweds, but if you have a large family or do a lot of entertaining, you’ll need enough space for a large table, countertops galore and extra appliances. Is the living room big enough for all your furniture or will you need to put some in storage? Assess the square footage in the house and the number of bathrooms and bedrooms. Will there be enough room for all your family to live comfortably? What about when you have company? You’ll also want to check the interior walls for any visible cracks or holes. Examine the basement. Is it damp or musty? Is there a hook-up for a washer and dryer, or are laundry facilities included with the house?

2. Check the Yard and Surrounding Area

The front and back yards of homes for sale in Frisco TX are important to the long-term livability and value of your property. Is it neat and well-kept? Will the lawn, trees and shrubs require a lot of maintenance? The fences surrounding the property should be in good repair. If not, you may need to invest your own money to replace or improve them. Is the garage large enough for all your vehicles? If it isn’t, are you willing to park one or more of your vehicles on the street? Does the house already have a patio or deck for entertaining, or will you need to build one?

3. Examine the House Exterior

If the exterior is already in good shape, you’ll save time and money on repairs. Check the roof’s condition, and look for sturdy gutters and downspouts. Does the home have energy-efficient storm windows and insulation? Ask the real estate agent or homeowner to show you the heating and air conditioning system controls. Some HVAC systems may require additional attic or home insulation to make them more energy-efficient. Will the house exterior need to be repainted or require repairs?

There are many more items you or a professional inspector should examine before closing on a house. For a better deal, buy your home through an experienced RE/MAX sales associate. Any buyer interested in homes for sale in Frisco TX should contact RE/MAX associate Iryna Mitchell, your real estate expert specializing in fine residential homes in Frisco and outlying areas. Iryna can help you find the perfect single-family, multi-family or rental property for your budget and lifestyle. Call Iryna today at 903-439-5454 for more information about the properties she represents.