It’s the roof and the foundation and the mechanicals or internal organs like air-conditioning, heating, ventilation, plumbing & electrical wiring that make or break a home purchase. That’s why a lender wants to see 3 to 5 years life left on a roof. They don’t want brand new owners suddenly find they need to come up with another $12,000 to keep the rain out!

Yes, the color of paint will influence you. Also yes, so will the sweet sign that says “Certified Backyard Habitat.” But paint’s cheap & and you can do one room at a time, putting your unique stamp on the house. And you can do right by the birds & the bees as well. Just connect with the Audubon Society on your own certification.

Long and short, a shrewd calculating eye serves you well when you’re shopping for a new abode. These are the most expensive purchases most of us make in our lifetimes. So be sensible!