Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Be sure to check for these things before buying a home

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Today’s column was written by Meghan Belnap, a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She finds happiness in researchin­g new topics that help to expand her horizons.

Are you in the market to buy a new home? Do you want a space that’ll fit your needs far into the future? Here are things to look into before you choose the community — and home — that are right for you.

CONVENIENC­ES

How many grocery stores are near your home? Where is the closest bank, should you need to withdraw funds on short notice? These things are what you want answers to in case you need something in a hurry.

If you’ve chosen to live in a climate with cold, snowy winters, then it’s important to know how far the essentials are from your location. Your safety during the winter months could depend on it, should your car break down or if you have an accident.

GROUND STRUCTURE Knowing the soil grouting for your new home is crucial because there may be a potential for uneven settling. If the foundation of your home is not on a stable soil pack, then it could cause serious problems with the base of your home in the future.

A soil stabilizer can help you get the home of your dreams and make sure that it stays secure for years to come.

LOCAL ENTERTAINM­ENT Living in a neighborho­od without entertainm­ent or recreation­al areas nearby isn’t going to be fun, especially if you have children.

If you enjoy morning jogs, then a park near your home might be a big plus for you. If you’re the type who likes to go dancing or attend sporting events, then a local theater or stadium is ideal.

Checking with the area’s chamber of commerce can also help you find events in the area; most communitie­s have an online site with a monthly calendar of events.

Your new home should be a source of happiness for years to come. Knowing that it’s on solid ground and you’re in an area that has everything you need in close range can make or break the decision for you. Remember to drive by your potential new home at night to ensure that there are no issues with safety.

— Reprinted from with permission of RISMedia

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