If you are buying South Lake Tahoe real estate, you probably have a list of what it is you do not want and a list of what you absolutely do want. Some may buy because they need more space, some may buy because they want to downsize, some may buy for the purpose of an investment while others may just be sick of renting. Every buyers decision to purchase a home for sale in South Lake Tahoe is different. Of course when it comes to being a buyer in a sellers market, you may decide to compromise on more items then you had originally planned. In some scenarios, that is fine. After all, you can make South Lake Tahoe real estate your own over time. Especially if the home fits your “Need” list AND your budget. However, while being flexible is crucial when it comes to buying real estate in South Lake Tahoe, there are some things you should not budge on. Before signing on the dotted line, read these “Don’ts”.
Location
It is like the old saying goes: Location, Location, Location. You can change things about a house, but you cannot change the location of it. So if proximity to a certain school, local amenities or your place of work is a must, don’t settle for a house that is too far away. Also, steer clear of homes for sale in South Lake Tahoe that front/back commercial businesses, highways or have other transportation noises such as airports. While having one nearby isn’t so bad, the constant noise from cars driving by or airplanes overhead can impact your daily life. Especially if you have young children. While having neighborhood businesses nearby can be a great amenity, it can also be a head ache when you simply want to kick your feet up and relax.
Don’t Buy A Lemon
This is why inspection reports are so crucial. Who doesn’t want to be like Chip & Joanna Gaines from HGTV’s Fixer Upper? We get the allure of buying a budget home for sale in South Lake Tahoe so you can turn it into your dream home over time. However! There are certain “fixes” that can not only cost you a lot of money, but also your time and your sanity. Be sure the dream DIY project isn’t going to drain your bank account and turn in to the ultimate money pit later on.
Commute
When it comes to South Lake Tahoe real estate, there are a lot of people that are willing to drive to Sacramento or down to the Valley (Carson City, Gardnerville, Reno, etc.) for work. After all, it is a small price to pay to be able to own real estate in South Lake Tahoe. Just don’t forget that this is a drive you will be doing round trip 5 days a week during winter conditions and during busy summer traffic. Before you buy a home that guarantees you are spending a minimum of an hour driving every day, do the commute yourself during the times you would be driving to see if you can really do it long term.
When it comes to buying real estate in South Lake Tahoe, it is crucial to work with a Realtor that is going to show you properties that fit your needs. A quality Realtor will have your best interest at heart and that means not buying something just to buy it. This is one of the biggest financial investments you will make so it is so important that you make the right decision for right now and your future. For more information on real estate in South Lake Tahoe, give me a call. I would be happy to help.
