Buying a new home is exciting, but there are many things to take into consideration before making the down payment and committing to such a large purchase. In addition to factors such as schools, property taxes, and nearby traffic, it is necessary to consider the neighborhood and who will be living closest to your new home.
Here are some questions to ask neighbors prior to purchasing a house in Washington state.
How will we handle shared property?
It is important that you and your neighbors are on the same page when it comes to paying for the installation and repairs of shared property. For example, if a fence lies on the property boundary between your house and the house next door, you and the owner of the neighboring house are both responsible for the maintenance of the fence. One way to handle this is to agree to pay equally for the repair of natural wear and tear.
A shared driveway can be another form of contention among neighbors. Make sure you have an agreement regarding maintaining the driveway and where to park vehicles.
What are your expectations for noise?
If you are someone who enjoys having large gatherings outside during the evenings, this might not mesh well if you move close to someone who goes to bed early and dislikes noise. Be honest and upfront about your expectations before purchasing a house.
Asking appropriate questions of neighbors when you are looking for a house can prevent conflicts and disagreements in the future.
