PHILADELPHIA - If you're a first-time home buyer, you've probably heard the term "due diligence." Don't be intimidated by this word; getting the facts is essential before committing to a real estate transaction. Whether you're buying a home or commercial property, you should follow due diligence procedures to avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your investment is sound.
You Should Consult A Real Estate Lawyer
When buying real estate, you must do your due diligence before signing any contracts. This includes performing a thorough investigation of the home and surrounding area. The process of due diligence is designed to give you the opportunity to do your research and make sure that the property is suitable for you and your family.
It is also important to remember that once you sign the contract and give your earnest money deposit, you cannot back out. This is because you are obligated to follow certain conditions set out in the contract. Additionally, filing a lawsuit is expensive and time-consuming, and it is often not worth the effort unless you have solid legal reasons.
Due diligence in real estate involves thoroughly investigating the property and the current owner. Any past financial records, lawsuits, or zoning restrictions should be investigated thoroughly. You should also check existing structures and the seller's reputation. This can give you important insights into the value of the property.
You Should Check If The Property Is In A Flood Zone
Considering that climate change increases flood risk, it's important to know if the property you're considering is in a flood zone. Flood damage can be costly, and the average home is more prone to flood damage than to fire. Even if your home isn't in a flood zone, you should take precautions in case it floods.
Flood zones are designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The highest risk areas are designated as special flood hazard areas, or SFHA. These zones are generally river or coastal communities, and the probability of flooding is as high as 1% yearly. A typical flood depth is about one to three feet. You must purchase flood insurance if you plan to purchase a home in a high-risk area.
The insurance industry uses flood insurance premiums and risk maps to determine premiums and risks. Flood maps are updated periodically, and zone boundaries and base flood elevations may change. Using FEMA maps and flood zone worksheets, you can access preliminary and current maps.
You Should Conduct Preliminary Due Diligence
Due diligence is an important part of any real estate purchase. The goal is to get the most value for your money by thoroughly investigating the property. It is an important step in buying a home because it can help you discover problems that need to be repaired or replaced. For example, a home inspection can reveal plumbing leaks or HVAC unit malfunctions. Conducting due diligence before purchasing a property is a great way to ensure you're getting a good deal and feel confident about your new asset.
Due diligence includes examining the property's title and tax records to ensure it is free from liens. For multi-family homes, it is important to examine current tenants, property taxes, utilities, and local ordinances. Also, consider whether the property will be profitable.
You Should Conduct A Google Search
The due diligence involves doing the necessary research before you buy a property. You must ensure that the property is safe from natural disasters and has the minimum insurance requirements. You should also perform a local real estate market analysis. This will allow you to determine whether there are any neighborhood environmental hazards or abandoned properties. It will also help you determine how well comparable income properties perform. If you find any red flags, walk away from the deal and search for another property.
Doing due diligence is very important for any property, whether it is a commercial or residential one. Before making an offer, conduct a due diligence checklist that includes questions such as: what are the property taxes? What are the current tenants like? Are there utilities available? Are there local ordinances regarding the sale of alcohol? This is all part of due diligence in real estate and can help you avoid potential headaches or expenses. It is also important to trust your gut. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't.
You should also consider conducting a home inspection. Home inspections can help identify potential problems with the property and give you a clear idea of its value. An inspection also gives you a better idea of the property's condition, whether it's livable or not. You can also ask your real estate agent if you can obtain a home warranty as part of the deal. Often, a one-year warranty is included in the purchase price.
