Should You Buy the “Except for…” Home?

If you need a new home, you may come across the phrase “except for…” in a property listing. This phrase indicates that certain items or features are not included in the home sale. But should you consider buying a home that comes with this disclaimer?

There are a few factors to contemplate when deciding whether or not to purchase an “except for…” home.

Excluded items and their impact on budget

One of the first things you should do when considering an “except for…” home is to determine what is not included in the sale. It could range from minor items like appliances or window treatments to more significant features such as a pool or landscaping. Consider the importance of the excluded items and how they might impact your budget and decision-making process. For example, if the home doesn’t include a functioning refrigerator, you’ll need to factor in the cost of purchasing a new one. On the other hand, if the excluded items are minor and not essential to the home, they may not be as much of a factor in your decision.

Reason for exclusion and cost of repairs

Second, It’s important to consider why certain items are not included in selling an “except for…” home. The seller may want to take certain items to their new home, or they may need to be fixed and replaced. If the latter is the case, you may need to budget for repairs or replacements, which could significantly increase the overall cost of the home. It is important to consider if the excluded items, such as a heating system or roof, are essential to the home’s functioning. On the other hand, if the items are not essential or can be replaced, they may have less of an impact on the overall cost of the home.

Property value and excluded items

Third, When deciding whether to purchase an “except for…” home, it’s important to consider the property’s overall value and how the excluded items might affect it. If the items not included are relatively minor and do not significantly impact the home’s value, it may not be a major concern. However, if the excluded items are more significant and would significantly impact the home’s value, it may be worth considering other options. For example, if the home does not have a functioning heating system, this could be a major factor in the property’s overall value and may be worth considering other options. On the other hand, if the excluded items are minor and easily replaced, they may not significantly impact the home’s value.

By carefully considering all of these factors, you can decide whether an “except for…” home is right for you. Some key considerations include the cost of replacing or repairing excluded items, the impact on the home’s value, and the property’s overall functionality. Ultimately, it’s important to take the time to carefully consider all of these factors before deciding.