Tips for buying a plantation-style home in Tennessee
Settling down in Tennessee comes with so many different benefits. Its booming economy, great education options
tax-friendly system, amazing nature, and employment possibilities make this state very desirable among new residents. What attracts them as well as the real estate market – it’s actually ranked in the top 5 in the country. Affordable, high-quality homes are what make people invest in real estate in Tennessee, and many of them opt for plantation-style homes. To find out more about buying a plantation-style home in Tennessee, continue to our useful guide to a safe and easy purchase.
About plantation homes in Tennessee
Plantation homes are common in most southern states, including Tennessee. Nowadays, they represent grand architectural pieces and are more expensive than regular homes. These mansions were mostly built 20 to 30 years before the American Civil War – usually in the 1840s up to 1860s.
The main exterior characteristics include extravagant architecture – large, evenly-spaced windows, huge entrances, grand balconies, etc. These mansions are often box-shaped and insist on symmetry.
When it comes to the interior, plantation homes are also grandiose and elegant. They mainly include huge foyers, luxurious ballrooms, and dining rooms, grand curving stairways, etc. You can expect to see chandeliers, pianos, card tables, and similar luxurious details. The colors of the interior often include whites, blues, greys, emerald green, mauve, pale lavender, and mustard yellow colors. Everything about these homes points to the luxury their owners once had, so colors, furniture, and fabrics are the representation of such a lifestyle.
How to buy a plantation-style home in Tennessee?
Firstly, you should know that Tennessee is a seller’s market. This means that there are more buyers than there are listed homes. Good listings often go off the market very quickly, so you need to be very responsive and make the decision fast. As we mentioned, the real estate market in Tennessee is quite hot, so property values are increasing every year, so you shouldn’t worry about losing your investment.
Start by hiring a reliable agent
Professional agents always have the advantage over inexperienced, layman buyers. They know the market much better and know exactly how to find you a perfect home. Local agents are probably the best option, as they are knowledgeable about the local market and will help you faster and more efficiently.
Know your budget
It is essential to know your financial situation before you start looking for a home. If you need to get a mortgage, it is important to consider several key factors such as your credit score, down payment costs, closing costs, and finally the ratio between your income and your debt. That ratio shouldn’t be more than 36 percent per month – no matter how much you love a property. Spending more than you can is going to lead you to financial problems in the future and eventually losing a perfectly good house.
Get pre-approved before you start looking for a home
To save yourself time, make sure you get-pre approved before you start looking at homes. The reason is that some sellers won’t show you their property without your pre-approval letter. Buying a plantation-style home in Tennessee is an expensive investment, so they want to communicate only with serious buyers who can afford their property.
The maintenance costs
As we mentioned, plantation homes are more expensive due to their size and style. However, you shouldn’t forget the annual maintenance costs that can be higher as well. Old homes are worth buying due to their charm and craftsmanship, but they need to be maintained regularly n order not to lose their shine. This results in paying more than a common house owner. But, if you’re in love with your new mansion, no price is high to keep it beautiful.
Ensure the condition of the property
House inspection is an essential step in buying a house. Even though plantation-style homes are older properties, the condition of the house you like needs to match the price you pay. A licensed inspect can help you check the basics such as the foundation, roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems. Also, it is important to test every home in Tennessee for radon, especially if the seller hasn’t done it for a while. Home inspections and tests are important with old-age houses and can save you from unpleasant surprises in the future.
Plan your move carefully
Guided by your preferences, your budget, and a trustworthy agent, you will be able to find a property you love in no time. However, that’s not the last step in the process. To really call Tennessee home, you need to carefully plan your move and find the best way to relocate.
Solid plan – no stress
It is possible to feel at home in no time and minimize the stress. However, you need to plan every step of the way. Make a list of everything you need to do before you move. Then, start ticking off the tasks one by one.
Pack valuable items safely
If you plan on bringing some valuable furniture pieces or musical instruments into your new plantation-style home, make sure they arrive safely. Dismantling and safe packing techniques are the best way to keep your valuables intact until you decide to unpack.
Let experts help you out
Buying a new home, packing, and moving is a bit overwhelming, isn’t it? That’s why we always recommend assigning someone more experienced to do certain tasks for you. If you let Spyder Moving deal with the relocation of your belongings, you have plenty of time to take care of your new home and prepare it for a new chapter.
Take your time before making decisions
Even though good houses go off listings quickly, make sure you take your time before making such a huge investment. Buying a plantation-style home in Tennessee is not something we do every day. Thus, the home needs to be perfect
Rushing will only lead to unpleasant surprises, surprise costs, and stress, so take your time, trust professionals and pick the home of your dreams!
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