Eugene is one of the top destinations for people looking to live in a place with lots of green spaces and a warm, sunny climate like the Mediterranean. You’ll love the clean, fresh air, lush fruit trees adorning the neighborhoods, and the gorgeous surrounding valleys, rightly earning it the name – “Emerald City.” Of course, the affordable cost of living is always the prime consideration.
If you’ve been thinking of moving to Eugene, Oregon, houses in locations like Laurel Hill Valley, Friendly Area, Fairmount, and Santa Clara should be at the top of your list. Before putting down a deposit on the perfect place you like, here are some of the critical things to determine.
How old is the house?
Although the house’s location and price are essential factors influencing your decision to buy the home, you’ll also take a closer look at its age. A newer structure is likely to be in better condition and built to match the requirements of a contemporary family. You’ll probably need more spacious closets and bathrooms with upgraded appliances and systems. While older homes do have a vintage appeal, the trade-off is usually outdated plumbing, wiring, furnace, and HVAC systems.
Check the paperwork for information about the last renovations and maintenance conducted on the house. Chances are that saving on the house price will end up in your investing in remodeling projects – if not right away, then within the next few years.
Is the roof sturdy? Are there any signs of water seepage and wood damage?
Eugene has lovely weather with mild winters and wet summers. You’re not likely to see more than three to five inches of snow all through the year. Rainfall is typically light, with total precipitation of a maximum of 45 inches per year. Even so, you must examine the roof closely for signs of damage. Broken and missing shingles, a warped roof, and rotting joists and beams can lead to more significant issues down the line.
Daniel Young, CEO of Kingdom Roofing, warns homeowners of the risks from a leaking roof. Wood rot ultimately leads to mold and mildew, termites, and significant damage to the house’s interiors. Get a roofing contractor to isolate problems like ineffective water drainage, broken gutters, and cracked flashing. Even if you see patches of dampness on the ceiling of the upper floor, attic, or the walls – that’s an indication the roof needs extensive repairs.
Does the house stand in a FEMA flood zone?
Before purchasing the house, you would want to ascertain if it stands in a flood hazard zone. Many home inspectors now use automated robots to get inside the crawlspaces and check the foundation for integrity. Improper drainage can lead to the formation of mold and mildew and a foul odor emanating from the floor. If the house stands on a hill, the condition of the soil and foundation and possibility of the soil sinking are essential considerations.
The city’s climate is typically dry, so minor repairs can be conducted using a wood resin that lends durability and strength to the wooden beams. A resin coating can provide robust protection against future rot and fungi, insect penetration, and water damage.
Is the sewer system well-maintained?
Eugene has separate systems to manage stormwater and wastewater from private homes. Even so, you might want to get the drainage pipes leading from the roof and foundation checked carefully. The cleanout caps should be unclogged while the joints must permit the free flow of water. In case you have trees on your property, getting the pipe network examined regularly is critical to ensure there is no root intrusion. House inspections typically include an examination of the discharge points.
If the house is more than 20 years old, get the main sewer lines examined and check for obstructions, cracks, and breaks. Keep in mind that sewer systems are usually properly developed in urban areas. However, suburbs may have septic tanks that should be pumped at the time of finalizing the sale.
Is it a good city for raising a family?
Eugene is one of the perfect places to raise a family, which is why many people with kids move to the city. You can enroll your kids in the Eugene School District and the Bethel School District. There are also various private schools such as Oak Hill School, Wellsprings Friends School, Eugene Waldorf School, and Little French School. Lots of parks, sports facilities, and activities for kids are additional positives why you would want to live here. The ambiance is laid-back, and the people are friendly.
If you’re considering moving to Eugene, Oregon, investing in a house is a critical decision. Get home inspections done from licensed inspectors and verify that the roofing, foundation, sewer systems, and doors and windows are in perfect condition.
