Home / Buyer's checklist
Your printable checklist
The Richmond home buyer's checklist
Print it, take it on tours, check things off. Questions? Call Julie.
The commute
- Drive it Monday 7 a.m. and Thursday 5 p.m., both directions
- List where you go: work, school, family, doctor
- Which highway would you live on? 64, 95, 288, 295, Powhite
- Remote or hybrid? Count the days a week
The age of the house
- Year built, and what's been replaced since
- Roof, HVAC, water heater, windows: age and paperwork
- Older home: wiring, plumbing, sewer line; inspector who knows old houses
- Built before 1978: read the lead-based paint disclosure
- New build: does the builder warranty transfer?
HOA
- Is there one?
- Dues: how much, how often, what they cover
- Rules: fences, parking, rentals, sheds, paint
- Any special assessments coming? Get the documents
Everyday costs to price out
- Real estate tax rate for the exact locality
- Water/sewer, or well/septic upkeep in the outer counties
- Trash and recycling at that address
- Heating fuel type and last 12 months of bills
- Internet provider and monthly price
- Homeowners insurance, and flood if near the James or a creek
- HOA dues
- Gas and wear on the car
Flood and drainage
- Check the FEMA flood map for the address
- Look at the yard and the street after a rain
Selling one house, buying the next
- Sell first, buy first, or both close together? Map it with Julie and a lender
The day-to-day
- Drive to the nearest grocery, gas station, urgent care
- Visit on a weekday and a weekend, morning and night
- Walk the block and talk to a neighbor
Julie Lawson, Realtor · Dalton Realty · Call Julie: (804) 387-3315 · julieyourrealtor@yahoo.com
This checklist describes homes, roads, and utilities. It doesn't rank neighborhoods or tell you who "fits" where. Everyone is welcome here.