Here's Why You Shouldn't Buy a Home in South Hill

  If you're considering moving to Spokane, specifically Spokane's South Hill, because you're captivated by its classic charm, picturesque parks, walkability, and excellent schools, it's important to be aware of the unique challenges that come with owning an older home in this area. While South Hill is known for its stunning, historic homes dating back to the early 1900s, it's crucial to understand the potential issues you may encounter. In this comprehensive blog post, we'll delve into five key aspects you need to know before making the decision to buy a home on Spokane's South Hill.   Knob and Tube Wiring One prevalent concern with older homes on the South Hill is the presence of knob and tube wiring. This electrical system, popular from the 1880s to the 1940s, is now considered obsolete and can pose fire hazards or safety risks. While it may not be an immediate concern, buried knob and tube wiring, particularly when found under insulation, can become a potential fire hazard. Rewiring a full house can be an expensive undertaking, ranging from $15,000 to $30,000. Therefore, it's essential to inquire about the presence of knob and tube wiring and assess the potential costs involved in updating the electrical system.   Orangeburg Sewer Lines Another aspect to be mindful of when purchasing an older home on South Hill is the presence of Orangeburg sewer lines. As these homes were constructed several decades ago, they often feature Orangeburg pipes, which consist of wood pulp and asbestos. Over time, these pipes can deteriorate, leading to collapsing or root intrusion, causing sewer backups. Replacing the sewer line can be a costly endeavor, ranging from $10,000 to $15,000. Regular maintenance and potential upgrades to PVC pipes can help mitigate issues associated with Orangeburg sewer lines.   Stone or Rock Foundations Many older homes on South Hill boast stone or rock foundations due to the absence of modern concrete pouring techniques during their construction. While these foundations possess a certain rustic charm, settling and uneven floors can be common issues. The settling of the home into the ground over 100 years can result in sloping floors. While minor sloping can often be corrected, extreme cases may require professional intervention. Additionally, the presence of gaps between the rocks in the foundation can lead to moisture issues, which may require ongoing monitoring and maintenance.   Big, Old Trees Spokane's South Hill is known for its magnificent, mature trees. However, these trees can present challenges during severe weather conditions. Windstorms or sudden freezing temperatures can cause trees to fall, potentially resulting in property damage. Ensuring proper insurance coverage and conducting regular tree assessments can help mitigate the risks associated with large, old trees on your property.   Winter Driving and Hills Spokane experiences harsh winters, and South Hill's hilly terrain can pose challenges for driving during inclement weather. Snowstorms can make certain roads, such as Stevens and Freya, difficult to navigate, potentially leading to cars getting stuck or sliding backward. It's crucial to familiarize yourself with alternate routes, such as High Drive or the Perry district, to avoid these challenging hills during extreme weather events.   Owning an older home on Spokane's South Hill can be a rewarding experience, with its classic charm and proximity to stunning parks like Manito Park. However, it's vital to be aware of the potential issues associated with these historic properties. From outdated electrical systems and aging sewer lines to stone foundations and the challenges of winter driving, thorough understanding and proper planning are crucial when considering purchasing an older home on South Hill. By taking these factors into account and working with knowledgeable professionals, you can make an informed.

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Don't Move to Spokane Until You Know About This!

  If you're considering a move to Spokane from anywhere across the country, this blog post is for you. Relocating can be a stressful and daunting process, but with the right guidance and information, you can make the transition smoother. In this post, we'll outline the four essential steps you need to know when moving to Spokane: research, neighborhood selection, virtual showings, and the escrow period. Let's dive in!   Step 1: Research Phase The research phase is crucial, and it can start anywhere from a few months to two years before your planned move. Begin by exploring online resources to get a sense of what Spokane is really like and what it's like to live there. Watch informative videos, join relevant Facebook groups, and follow local Spokane accounts on social media. It's also beneficial to connect with current residents, friends, family, or even your future employer or co-workers for their insights on neighborhoods, schools, parks, and more. Take advantage of mortgage calculators to determine your price range and monthly mortgage affordability. Additionally, utilize platforms like Redfin or Zillow to explore properties and leverage Google Street View to get a feel for different neighborhoods.   Step 2: Neighborhood Discovery To gain a better understanding of Spokane's neighborhoods, it's highly recommended to visit the city in person. Plan a two to four-day trip, focusing on driving through various neighborhoods rather than being a tourist. This allows you to evaluate which areas align with your preferences and needs. While finding the perfect home is essential, prioritize narrowing down your preferred neighborhoods during this discovery trip. Collaborate with your real estate agent to identify the most suitable neighborhoods based on your budget, desired amenities, and lifestyle.   Step 3: Virtual Showings For those unable to visit Spokane frequently, virtual showings become invaluable. Virtual tours, when set up properly, provide an immersive experience. These tours feature high-quality videos, often captured on a phone with a gimbal for smooth footage. A knowledgeable guide can walk you through the property, highlighting key features and providing honest insights. Virtual tours also include floor plans and the last-mile drive to give you a sense of the surrounding area. If you find a property you like, plan to visit during the inspection period to view it in person and attend the home inspection if possible.   Step 4: The Escrow Period Once you've found your dream home and made an offer, the subsequent steps can be handled virtually. The escrow period involves inspections, appraisal, and signing paperwork, which can all be managed remotely. Coordinate with your real estate agent and other professionals involved to ensure a smooth transaction. Utilize mobile notaries or electronic signing for document completion, making the process convenient and efficient.   Moving to Spokane requires careful planning and execution. By following these four essential steps – conducting thorough research, exploring neighborhoods, leveraging virtual showings, and managing the escrow period – you can navigate the relocation process successfully. Remember to partner with a trusted real estate agent like Hayden Halstead, who specializes in helping people relocate to Spokane. With the right team and resources, your move to Spokane can be a seamless and exciting transition into your new home.

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First-Time Home Buying Dos and Don'ts in Spokane

What are some dos and don'ts for buying a home for the first time in Spokane? If you're a first-time homebuyer in Spokane, there are some dos and don'ts you should keep in mind:   Dos:   Research the neighborhoods: Spokane has several unique neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. Do your research to find the one that suits your needs and budget.   Consider your budget: Determine your budget before you start looking for a home. Factor in expenses such as utilities, taxes, and insurance to ensure you can afford the monthly payments.   Get pre-approved for a loan: Getting pre-approved for a loan can make the buying process smoother and less stressful. It also gives you an idea of what you can afford and can help you narrow down your search.   Work with a local real estate agent: A local real estate agent can provide valuable insight into the Spokane housing market, help you find homes that meet your needs, and negotiate the best deal on your behalf.   Don'ts: Ignore potential issues: When buying a home, it's essential to thoroughly inspect the property to identify any potential issues or hidden costs. Don't overlook things like structural damage, water damage, or mold.   Make emotional decisions: Don't let emotions cloud your judgment when buying a home. It's important to be objective and logical to avoid making costly mistakes.   Overextend yourself: Avoid overextending yourself financially. Be realistic about your budget and only consider homes within your means.   Skip the inspection: Skipping the inspection is a mistake many first-time homebuyers make, but it can lead to costly repairs down the line. Always insist on a thorough inspection before finalizing the purchase.   In conclusion, buying a home for the first time in Spokane requires careful consideration and planning. Research the neighborhoods, determine your budget, and work with a local real estate agent to find the right home for you. Don't ignore potential issues, make emotional decisions, overextend yourself, or skip the inspection. With these dos and don'ts in mind, you can make a confident and informed decision when buying your first home in Spokane.

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