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Buying a Portland Apartment: What to look for inside the apartment - By: Ram Riverplace

Buying a home in Portland is akin to buying a carton of eggs. You never know what you are going to find. So, what characteristics lead to a house being highly ‘desirable’? Granted, there is not an exact set of criteria that will suit all, but the more factors you have working in your favor the better. The purpose is not to talk about buying an apartment for the purpose of flipping it. Rather, buying a Portland apartment that you can live in.

Here are a few nasty surprises to keep an eye out for:

Foundation problems

When it comes to buying an apartment, do not buy an apartment that has issues with the foundation. Within your apartments, major termite attack, disintegrating bricks and major settlement cracks should ring warning bells. In units, beware of spalling concrete, often called concrete cancer. And, if you see major cracks in the foundation outside, or the walls look like they are caving in some spots, kindly leave the apartment or seek professional advice before buying.

Finishes and materials

Once you know your price range, discern what finishes are expected in your price point. Less expensive apartments may use vinyl flooring, lower end carpet and possible plastic laminate counters in kitchen and baths. Whereas, higher end homes may use more resilient flooring such as tile and wood and solid surfacing in kitchens, such as concrete, granite, marble or slate. Knowing what is expected in your price category will help you determine if the apartment you’re looking at is a deal or not.

Kitchen

Kitchens are expensive to replace, so watch them closely unless you are replacing it anyway. Check all the cupboards and the floor for signs of water damage and rot. Look closely around the dishwasher where steam and leaks may have caused damage. Also ensure there are enough power points and that your refrigerator will fit.

Proximity

The most important thing to consider so far as location is concerned is proximity to employment. Many first home buyers have limited finances as they are in the early stages of a career or they may be trying to buy a property on a single income. You need to consider transportation costs as well as mortgage repayments when budgeting to buy your Portland apartment. You need to consider the financial implications of this on your household budget.

The outside of the apartment

Wander around and outside the apartment. What is the aspect like, will you get enough sun and shade, and is there room for extensions? What about your privacy? What is the condition of the fences and retaining walls? Then look more closely at the house.

The Bottom Line

Looking for a new apartment in Portland can be thrilling and at times panicky! Even though it can be both of these, looking for a suitable Portland apartment is an integral part of life. Decide what amenities you’d prefer. Use this essential amenities list to help you know what to look for when looking for the perfect Portland apartment.

About the Author

River Place Living understands that finding a new home is both a challenging and exciting experience. And offer furnished, unfurnished, and, Portland rentals corporate apartments. Each Apartment Rentals Portland has functional floor plans with Whirlpool appliances, central air conditioning, high ceilings, full size washers and dryers, elevators in all buildings, and much more!

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Ram-Riverplace/73891




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