Buying a Home in Sonoma: 4 Things to Look for at Open Houses

Located in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, Sonoma is a stunning town that offers a unique blend of luxury living and rural charm. The idyllic location provides an opportunity for first-time buyers to own a home in a tranquil but culturally rich location. While attending open houses and building up to buying a home in Sonoma, you may get swept up in the beauty of the surroundings. But the landscapes will hardly matter if you end up with the wrong property. Here are 4 things you should look for instead.

Damages and Resale Value

As Sonoma CA real estate agent Daniel Casabonne will attest, Sonoma is a high-value real estate market. But the cost of purchasing a home goes beyond the listing price. You must also factor in property taxes, closing costs, maintenance, and potential repairs and renovations. The latter can quickly rack up your bill and put you thousands of dollars above budget. This is why you should use an open house to assess the overall condition of a property and check for signs of potential damage.

Look for signs of water damage, mold stains, cracks on the ceilings and walls, broken doors, and more. Check if the lighting fixtures work and if all the windows and doors open and close. Naturally, you will hire a home inspector later to do a more expert assessment, but this early inspection can help you rule out a damaged home that could cost you more in renovation.

Privacy, Noise, and Proximity to Amenities

While quaint and quiet, Sonoma is a culturally rich community with many social events and amenities forming the social fabric of the area. The proximity to wineries and vineyards means there are always things to do in Sonoma. As a buyer, you need to understand that each neighborhood in the area is unique. Some offer proximity to these amenities, which can sometimes mean noise and less privacy, and others feature expansive estates on exclusive streets. Determine which one works for you and walk around the neighborhood and backyard to see how close or far from the bustle you are.

Natural Light and Scenery

Sonoma is famous for its breathtaking scenery, with rolling hills and lush vineyards offering the perfect backdrop. The real estate is designed to highlight this charm, and housing options range from towering condos to grand estates set on the hillside. As you look around the home, consider the direction it faces and the size and number of windows. Find a home that offers maximum views of the rich landscapes.

Storage Space and Long-Term Potential

A home that makes sense now may not make sense in a few years, especially as your family grows or your spaced needs expand. During the open house, consider how much space the home offers and factor in your long-term plans. Make sure the property can adapt to your evolving needs.

Discuss Your Sonoma Real Estate Options with Daniel Casabonne

Whether you have bought property before or are just dipping your toes in the Sonoma real estate market, there is no denying that open houses are the perfect opportunity to size up a property. They allow you to sieve out the noise on listings, see what a property offers, and see if it could meet your needs. This means there is no room for error. Protect your interests by hiring a real estate expert like Daniel Casabonne today to discuss what you want from a Sonoma home.