The Winning Strategy for Purchasing a Home in Red Deer and Central Alberta
Buying a home can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially when you’re trying to make sure it’s a solid investment for the future. In the latest episode of Brick x Brick, Roxann Klepper, a trusted real estate professional in Central Alberta, shared a valuable strategy for finding the right home—one that offers both quality and long-term value. If you’re in the process of buying a home in Red Deer or surrounding areas, here are some key takeaways that can help you make a smart decision.
Focus on Quality, Not Just the Shiny Exterior
It’s easy to get distracted by a home’s cosmetic appeal—the fresh paint, updated fixtures, and modern finishes. However, as Roxann points out, sometimes the "shiny and pretty" homes are merely covering up bigger issues like water damage or outdated infrastructure. While a newly renovated home might look good at first glance, it’s important to dig deeper into its foundation and overall structure.
For example, Roxann suggests you’d be better off purchasing a dated but well-maintained home with solid bones than buying a recently renovated property that was once a rundown foreclosure. In fact, investing in a well-built home, even if it’s not the most stylish, is often the best choice for long-term value.
The Power of Location
Location, location, location—yes, it’s a cliché, but it holds true for a reason. A good location can make or break a home’s value, both now and in the future. In Central Alberta, this means being aware of factors such as proximity to major roads, city plans for future developments, and whether the area is prone to flooding or poor drainage.
For example, Roxann advises against purchasing a home in an area with a high water table or in a location that is not expected to appreciate. Make sure you consider how a property’s location fits with your lifestyle, whether you’re commuting to Red Deer or seeking out family-friendly communities with access to amenities.
Structure and Maintenance Matter
When it comes to the structural integrity of a home, make sure it’s solid. Look beyond the cosmetic updates to the framework of the house. Is it well-built, or are there underlying issues that will cost a fortune to fix down the road?
Additionally, take note of how well the current owners have maintained the property. Regular upkeep can go a long way in extending the lifespan of major home components like the roof, furnace, and plumbing. If the previous owners have neglected maintenance, expect to spend more on repairs and replacements in the future.
Don’t Sweat the Cosmetics
Cosmetic issues, like outdated cabinets or flooring, may be an easy fix, but they often turn buyers away. Roxann recommends not getting hung up on these details. If the home is structurally sound and in a great location, but the kitchen cabinets aren’t to your liking, consider it an opportunity to customize the space to your taste.
In fact, you can take advantage of financing options like a purchase-plus-improvements mortgage to make immediate upgrades. This allows you to address cosmetic issues right away while still investing in a home that will increase in value.
Be Prepared to Make Changes
No home is perfect, and the sooner you accept that, the better. According to Roxann, part of the home-buying process is envisioning how you can make the property your own. If you’re willing to roll up your sleeves, you’ll be able to customize your home in ways that fit your needs and preferences, whether it’s through DIY projects or hiring contractors.
Remember, buying a home isn’t just about finding a place to live—it's an investment. By focusing on the quality of the home, its location, and its long-term value, you’ll be setting yourself up for success.
If you're looking for guidance on buying a home in Red Deer or Central Alberta, Roxann Klepper can help you find a property that checks all the right boxes. Stay tuned for future episodes of Brick x Brick, where we’ll dive into other important topics like wills and estates, so you can make informed decisions at every stage of your life.
Feel free to reach out for more information, and happy house hunting!