Once you own a home (hurray!) you’ll be tasked with its upkeep (boo).
If you’ve never owned a home, it’s easy to overlook how much time and money you’re going to spend on repairs in the first few years.
Kentucky homes come with unique considerations, like: property structures, natural weather risks, and rural property needs. Initially you should have received a disclosure from the seller where they are legally obligated to list all of the issues they’re aware of. The only catch is it’s very common to find additional problems they weren’t aware of.
To minimize the risk of an expensive surprise, this guide equips you with critical questions to help you make a well-informed decision.
Appliances & Utilities
- HVAC:
- How old is the system?
- What are the utility monthly costs during Kentucky’s hottest and coldest months?
- When was the system last serviced, and can you see a recent maintenance report?
- Is the system under warranty?
- When was the last time the furnace filter was replaced?
- Water Heater:
- How old is it, and when was it last flushed?
- Is there a drain pan underneath?
- How is the water heater heated?
- If heated by gas, is there a natural gas detector near it?
- Included Appliances:
- Are the washer, dryer, dishwasher, and stove included in the sale?
- Are any of these under warranty?
- Does the washer or dishwasher have a drain pan?
Around 29.4% of all claims are due to water damage and freezing, making it the second highest category for home claims.
Major Systems & Structure
- Roof:
- Has the roof ever leaked, and when was it last replaced or repaired?
- Foundation:
- In areas with Kentucky’s clay-rich soil, foundations can settle. Any signs of settling?
- Has the foundation been inspected recently?
- Water Damage:
- Kentucky’s flood-prone areas can cause water damage. Has the basement had any flooding issues, and is there a sump pump or other water management system?
- When was the last insurance claim filed, and what was it for?
- What repairs have been made, and have they been made to code?
For rural Kentucky properties, be aware of additional needs like septic systems, well water, and mineral rights by asking the seller or agent for details.
Safety Concerns
- Hazardous Materials:
- Homes built before 1978 may contain lead paint, radon, or asbestos. Has the property been tested for these?
- Natural Disaster Preparation:
- What natural disasters do the current owners have specific insurance coverage for?
Kentucky has areas prone to flooding and tornadoes, so it’s wise to check FEMA flood maps and consider flood insurance, especially near rivers. If you’re worried about tornadoes, consider homes with basements.
Neighborhood & Lifestyle
- Community:
- What is the neighborhood like?
- Are there families and good public schools in the area?
- HOA Rules:
- If the home is in a Homeowners Association (HOA), ask about any strict rules you may need to follow.
- Proximity:
- Consider the distance to work, school, parks, and other essentials.
Depending on what is revealed about the home, it may be wise to:
- Ask the seller to pay for a home warranty
- Request a discount
- Walk away from the sale
In Kentucky, sellers typically pay about 3.04% of the home’s sale price in closing costs. For a home valued at $212,088 — the median price in the state — your closing costs would be approximately $6,455.
With Bidly, you can buy a home for a flat fee of just $1,000, keeping more money in your pocket for what matters most. Schedule a free consultation for guidance on your next steps in the home-buying process.
Photo by Romain Dancre on Unsplash.
