• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
Login/Register (252) 326-4194
  • Home
  • Search
    • Search All Listings
    • Featured Listings
    • New Listing Notifications
  • Buyers
  • Sellers
  • Blog
    • Listing Videos
  • About
    • About Me
    • Testimonials
    • Google Reviews
  • Contact

9 Key Considerations When House Hunting

February 7, 2020 by idxcentral Leave a Comment

Are you looking for a new home? Trying to find the best one can feel like a massive burden. Get an idea of what to look for before you begin the house hunting journey, and you’ll improve your chances of finding the perfect home sooner rather than later! Recognize your lifestyle goals and needs – really know what works for you, what your deal-breakers are, and what you want in a home. You deserve it. Additionally, it is crucial to make sure things in a potential new home are in decent shape. You don’t want to end up with tons of costly repairs and renovations! Continue reading for some important tips to keep in mind while searching for the right home:

1. Get a professional inspection before buying.
A professional inspector will make sure the home is in adequate physical condition. Even if the home looks like it’s in tiptop shape, remember that the house has been spiffed up in order to draw attention to its best features. Or more negatively, a buyer could attempt to distract you from potential issues! A professional inspector is less likely to be duped. If you find a property that could be right for you, it’s highly recommended you inform the seller that a professional inspection is a condition of buying the house.

2. Be wary of damage and issues.
There are red flags that you can easily pick up on before involving an inspector. One of the first and most significant things to notice when viewing a listing is whether or not the place seems well-kept. If some features appear neglected, this could indicate that the seller hasn’t properly maintained the home, resulting in a wide array of potential problems you’ll have to deal with! Pay attention to the scents: are there musky smells? This may indicate water damage or mold. Check if the outside appears well-maintained. Is the grass overgrown? Does the roof appear dilapidated? Does the foundation look uneven? Nonchalantly open and close windows and doors as you walk through. Are the windows poorly installed? Do the doors close properly? Take note if there are leaky faucets, watermarks on the ceilings, if there is enough ventilation, if doorknobs feel wobbly, etc.

3. Is the location satisfactory?
Think about whether or not the home is in close proximity to the places you need regular access to. If not, are you willing to spend more in gas money and extra time driving? Or, is the listing close to public transportation access? Perhaps you’d truly love a home with a sunny backyard, or close to a park or walking trail so that you can easily achieve your daily exercise. If you’d prefer a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, consider how noisy the neighborhood seems. Is there a freeway close by? Also, take notice if the house is next to a body of water. Sure, this probably looks and sounds lovely, but it could also lead to flooding! If you are interested in a particular house, it’s smart to drive-by at different times of the day and night in order to get a well-rounded feel of the area and neighborhood-vibes.

4. Does the site fit your needs and desires?
Observe how the home was designed, the land it sits on and whether or not it will be accessible for you and your family. Are there many stairs? Will it be easy to park all of the vehicles? If you have pets or children (or plan to), will the home be suitable for them? Does the home feel private enough, in terms of things like fencing, the backyard and proximity to your neighbors? Ponder questions like these as you navigate the site and explore the property.

5. Ensure the size of the house is appropriate.
Obviously, consider the amount of people who will be moving into the home with you! Will you need a lot of space? Only view houses that have the right number of bedrooms and bathrooms. A very spacious house can be nice, but beware–more room means more expenses! It’s more costly to keep a larger house warm in the winter, for example. A larger house will also mean more maintenance.

6. Notice the potential for storage space.
When viewing a house, ponder whether or not the home will have enough space for your possessions. Do you have a large wardrobe? How big are the closets? Does the house have a garage or basement? Think of the hobbies and occupations held by those in your household: you may need room for heaps of toys, art supplies, ice skates, surfboards, books, suits, boots, musical instruments, DVDs, etc. It would be a shame to begin moving in, only to realize that you have nowhere to put various things. Some storage space can be added, but it’s still very helpful to consider this!

7. Consider the lighting.
You may desire large and/or many windows that let in sun throughout the day, or you may want to ensure that you have sufficient privacy in certain rooms. In the latter case, notice whether or not neighbors or passersby can easily see inside. Pay attention to where the electrical outlets are placed and imagine where you’d situate your lamps or chandeliers, can you achieve the lighting scheme you’re after?

8. Does the kitchen suffice?
For many, the kitchen is the most important room of the house. For others, not a huge amount of time is spent there. Once again, know what you want and need before embarking on your house-hunting journey. If you or your spouse love to cook, make sure there is enough counter space and room to store kitchen accessories and utensils. Scope out the cabinets – will they have enough room for all of your dishware and spices? Is there a dishwasher? Questions like these can certainly be deal-breakers for many seeking their new home!

9. Do the bathrooms fit your lifestyle?
Are you somebody who enjoys taking baths? It may be worth it to make sure the bathroom (or one of the bathrooms) has a nice tub. If you regularly need to get up early to prepare for work, consider whether or not there is a bathroom to facilitate this without disturbing the rest of your family – perhaps attached to the master bedroom.

Finding the best new home for you and your family can be a daunting mission. There are so many listings out there bursting with charm, you’ll need to prioritize what you truly want and need. Understanding red flags and the advantages of having an inspection are central to staying calm and making the best possible decision you can. As you venture out with the intention of finding the right place to call home, it’ll really help to follow key tips such as those listed above. When in doubt, contact your Realtor for more advice on finding your new dream home.

Filed Under: Home Buyers

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Crystal Dickens

Crystal Dickens

Lake Gaston North Carolina
& Virginia Real Estate
(252) 326-4194
Contact Crystal
Listing Alerts Your Home's Value

Categories

  • Home Buyers
  • Home Sellers
  • Listing Videos
Follow Me
The Lakefront Trifecta From sunrise views to peac The Lakefront Trifecta

From sunrise views to peaceful coves, these three Lake Gaston retreats are officially off the market!

🏡 331 Pine Dr – Southeast Shore Serenity
🏞 593 Ridge Dr – Rare Peninsula Gem
🌅 180 Songbird Dr – South-Facing Cottage in the Heart of the Lake

Congratulations to the new owners—your lake life begins now! 💦

Marketed by Crystal Dickens & Co.
Pointe Realty Group | 2105 Eaton Ferry Rd,
Littleton, NC
252-326-4194 | Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
🏡 Mountain Rock Point – A Timeless Lakefront 🏡 Mountain Rock Point – A Timeless Lakefront Retreat

Perfectly positioned on a panoramic point with more than 800 ft of protected Dominion shoreline, Mountain Rock Point offers unmatched privacy, serenity, and sweeping lake views. Thoughtfully placed to preserve the natural tree canopy, it captures both sunrises and glowing sunset skies.

✨ Highlights Include:
• Single-level slab foundation with 3 spacious suites
• Upper-level guest room, full bath & flex space
• Vaulted great room with panoramic lake views
• Screened porch that steals the show
• Curated furnishings and water toys that all convey
• Deep water dock & swimming

📍 Located in Peete River Farm, Lake Gaston’s boutique southwest community offering:
• Boat trailer parking
• Pickleball court
• Community water system
• Fiber internet & easy I-85 access

A rare opportunity to own a legacy property where luxury and nature live in perfect harmony.

📍636 Mountain Rock Trail 
Boydton, Virginia 

🔗 http://www.mountainrockpoint.com

📱 Contact me to schedule a private showing.

Marketed by Crystal Dickens & Co.
Pointe Realty Group | 2105 Eaton Ferry Rd,
Littleton, NC
252-326-4194 | Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
✨ Every Day Feels Like Saturday at Lake Gaston ✨
📍 318 Sandy Trace Dr #28 | Henrico, NC

• Main lake views in a protected cove
• Deeded covered boat slip + jet ski lift
• Private sandy beach just steps away
• 2 bedrooms + FLEX room 
• Every room has its own private bath en suite 
• Expanded deck & patio for outdoor living
• Tennis, pickleball & more in community amenities
• Gently furnished & move-in ready for summer

💦 Low-maintenance lake life at its best!
🔗 Message for a showing or visit 
https://m.prspcts.co/cbn3RXWmB13SU3KJ7

Marketed by Crystal Dickens & Co.
Pointe Realty Group | 2105 Eaton Ferry Rd, Littleton, NC
252-326-4194 | Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
SOLD! 🏡🌅 This charming lake cottage had ever SOLD! 🏡🌅
This charming lake cottage had everyone at “hello” — and now it has new owners ready to soak up those sunset views on Great Creek. Congratulations to our buyers and sellers!

💼 Marketed by Crystal Dickens & Co | Pointe Realty Group
🔗 www.JumpIntoLakeGaston.com
👏 Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
✨ Three’s a charm! ✨ Three Lake Gaston homes ✨ Three’s a charm! ✨
Three Lake Gaston homes, three incredible views, ALL under contract—and we couldn’t be more thrilled for our sellers and the lucky new owners!

⸻

🙌 Turn-Key Rental Investment Opportunity
📍 128 Crane Dr, Henrico, NC
Fully furnished, packed with amenities, and backed by 50+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ guest reviews—this Pea Hill gem was built for short-term rental success.
From water toys and a jetski to a guest-friendly double boathouse, this one was a lake dream and now it’s under contract!

⸻

💦 331 Pine Dr – Littleton, NC
Effortless Waterfront Living on the Southeast Shore
A fully renovated retreat with luxe finishes, rental potential, and an ultra-rare triple boathouse.

⸻

🌅 138 Lake Circle – Henrico, NC
“Blue Heaven” on the Main Channel
South-facing point lot with jaw-dropping views, cozy cottage vibes, and summer-ready features like a hammock, firepit, and deck just steps from the water.

⸻

🏡 Listed by Crystal Dickens & Co.
Pointe Realty Group | 2105 Eaton Ferry Rd, Littleton, NC
📞 252-326-4194 | Licensed in NC & VA
🏆 Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor

🎉 Cheers to new chapters, lake days, and sold signs!
🙌 This one’s ready for summer! 🌅 Main lak 🙌 This one’s ready for summer!

🌅 Main lake access, peaceful sunroom views, and all the space you need to make lake memories. ☀️ Walk to the dock, launch the boat, or just sit and soak it all in.

Now offered at $450,000

📍 28 Lakeview Dr
Bracey, VA
🔗 www.28lakeviewcircle.com

Marketed by:
Crystal Dickens & Co
Pointe Realty Group
2105 Eaton Ferry Road
Littleton, NC 27850
252-326-4194
Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
📕 Chapters of a Lake Weekend… Friday night li 📕 Chapters of a Lake Weekend…
Friday night lights on the porch.
Saturday mornings that linger.
Afternoons full of laughter and lake air.
Sunday sunsets that make you wish it would never end…

It starts as a weekend.
But sometimes, lake weekends turn into lake life. 🌤️

📍 135 Parkway Drive
Littleton, NC

🔗 http://www.135parkway.com

Now offered at $310,000

Crystal Dickens & Co
Pointe Realty Group
2105 Eaton Ferry Road
Littleton, NC 27850
252-326-4194
Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
🏡 111 Oak Ridge Court | Lake Gaston | $709,000 🏡 111 Oak Ridge Court | Lake Gaston | $709,000
Charming Waterfront Cottage in Eaton Ferry Estates
	•	Located on a main lake cove in a sought-after, amenity-filled community
	•	Lakeside sunroom offers serene, preserved cove views
	•	Open-concept kitchen with large island—ideal for entertaining
	•	Covered patio, front porch & private dock create multiple outdoor hangout spots
	•	Detached, updated garage perfect for storing lake toys
	•	Includes adjacent vacant lot with septic—adds privacy & potential for expansion
	•	Enjoy calm cove waters for floating or easy access to big water for boating
	•	Community perks: boat ramp, lakeside park, walking-friendly, day slips coming soon 
	•	Just 5 minutes to groceries, coffee, and waterfront dining
	•	2.5 ft water depth at dock on listing day—great for pontoon, fishing, or v-hull boats

Lake life starts here—schedule your tour today!

📍 111 Oak Ridge Court, Littleton, NC

🔗 www.lakegastoncottage.com

Crystal Dickens & Co
Pointe Realty Group
2105 Eaton Ferry Road
Littleton, NC 27850
252-326-4194
Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
✨ 1964 cottage reimagined—modern updates meet ✨ 1964 cottage reimagined—modern updates meet vintage charm
🌅 Wake up to wide water views and peaceful Dominion shoreline
🔥 Flat lot with firepit and room to gather, steps from the boathouse
🚤 Direct access to some of the lake’s best water
🌲 Surrounded by natural, untouched beauty—privacy you’ll feel

Where memories are made—and everything’s already done:
	•	New windows, roof, siding, and insulation
	•	All-new electrical, HVAC, and plumbing (75%)
	•	New kitchen: cabinets, granite, appliances, fixtures
	•	Renovated baths with tile, new vanities & fixtures
	•	New drywall, flooring, paint, light fixtures
	•	Brand new single boathouse
	•	New septic drainfield & distribution box

Just bring your furniture and start living the lake life.

📍 1917 Eastern Shores Rd
Littleton, NC 

🔗 www.cozycottageviews.com/

Marketed by:
Crystal Dickens & Co
Pointe Realty Group
2105 Eaton Ferry Road
Littleton, NC 27850
252-326-4194
Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
🎯 Buyer Goals: Secure a high-potential short-te 🎯 Buyer Goals:
Secure a high-potential short-term rental investment and a dream retreat for unforgettable family gatherings.

✅ Long range lake views
✅ Spacious layout for hosting a big family 
✅ Deep water 
✅ Exceptional value

➡️ Enter: 116 Eaton Place.
✔️ This one checked the boxes! We put together a fast buyer strategy and it went all the way to closing ! 
🤫 I can’t reveal all the secrets here, but let’s just say the journey from discovery to closing was one for the books.

📲 Curious how to secure the best properties on Lake Gaston?
Let’s talk — I’ll give you the inside scoop!

Crystal Dickens & Co
Pointe Realty Group
2105 Eaton Ferry Road
Littleton, NC 27850
252-326-4194
Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston's Best Realtor

*Listed by Alyssa Harper-Hayes
🇺🇸 This flag flies a little heavier on my he 🇺🇸 This flag flies a little heavier on my heart today.
❤️ Memorial Day is more than a weekend on the water—it’s a time to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice so we can enjoy these peaceful moments.
🙏 Grateful beyond words.
🙌 From $700-$1.1 🇺🇸 These are the listin 🙌 From $700-$1.1

🇺🇸 These are the listings you want to see this weekend before they are gone. 

🛶 Invest in Lake Gaston with any of these awesome offerings: 

🌅 $997,000 
128 Crane 
Pea Hill Creek, New Boathouse! 
www.lakegastongrouptherapy.com

☀️ $1,089,000
138 Lake Circle 
Big Main Lake Views, Point Lot!
www.blueheavenlakegaston.com

🌳 $709,000
111 Oakridge 
Main Lake Cove, 
Cottage Views!
www.lakegastoncottage.com

🚤 $849,000
331 Pine 
Triple Boathouse, 
Flat Lot , Main Lake Cove 
www.lakegastonsunrises.com

Marketed by:
Crystal Dickens & Co
Pointe Realty Group
2105 Eaton Ferry Road
Littleton, NC 27850
252-326-4194
Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
🌅 Over 50 glowing reviews—this five-star geta 🌅 Over 50 glowing reviews—this five-star getaway could be yours!

🫶 Own the lakehouse everyone loves: www.lakegastongrouptherapy.com
⛅️ Welcome to Blue Heaven… Million-dollar vi ⛅️ Welcome to Blue Heaven…
Million-dollar views.  Endless lake days.

This stunning south-facing point lot on the main channel of Lake Gaston lives up to its name. 

With 250 feet of shoreline curving into a private, lagoon-like cove, it’s the perfect spot for your own dock, beach, and swim area.

The charming cottage sits just steps from the water and offers:
	•	3 bedrooms, 3 full baths
	•	Open-concept living across two levels
	•	Two spacious living areas with panoramic lake views
	•	Relaxed, lake-inspired design that lets the scenery shine

Outside, enjoy:
	•	A detached two-car garage turned game and movie hangout
	•	Grilling patio for lakeside meals
	•	Covered porch, point swing, and hammock for ultimate unwinding
	•	Firepit for sunset s’mores

🌅 From sunrise coffee to paddleboarding, midday swims to evening fires, every moment here is about the view—mile-long, unobstructed, and unforgettable.

This is lake life—pure, simple, and spectacular.

📍 138 Lake Circle
Henrico, NC 

🔗 www.blueheavenlakegaston.com

Marketed by:
Crystal Dickens & Co
Pointe Realty Group
2105 Eaton Ferry Road
Littleton, NC 27850
252-326-4194
Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
🙌 Success Story: One Deal. Two Sides. Total Wi 🙌 Success Story: 
One Deal. Two Sides. Total Win.

Dual agency isn’t always the right fit—but it can work and provide successful results ! 

In this  case, both buyer and seller asked  me to represent them due to the  trust and transparency I had shown. 

When a home inspection challenge came up, I was able to keep communication clear, negotiations transparent and a focus on the facts which kept emotions neutral. The result? A solution and discount that brought both sides together—turning a potential deal-breaker into a done deal.

The outcome: happy buyers, happy sellers, and a successful closing where everyone reached their goals.

💡 Pro Tip: Whether you’re buying or selling, make sure your agent fully explains dual agency and how it may (or may not) serve your needs. 

Real estate is never one-size-fits-all—it’s about the right fit for you.
Effortless Waterfront Living on the Southeast Shor Effortless Waterfront Living on the Southeast Shore for $849,000 and rental potential! 

Step into luxury and ease at this fully renovated waterfront retreat, perfectly positioned on a flat, sandy bottom with clear water. 
From sunrises to shimmering afternoon light on the lake, this east-facing gem delivers unforgettable views from nearly every angle.

Property Highlights:
	•	Open-concept living with sweeping lake views from kitchen, dining, and seating areas
	•	Main floor features a lakeside primary suite and guest bedroom
	•	Terrace level offers additional bedroom, flex space, full bath, and large recreation area
	•	Two inviting living spaces plus covered porch, open deck, and terrace-level patio
	•	Lakeside two-car garage providing storage or creative expansion opportunities
	•	Gently sloping yard with green space leading to the water’s edge

Rare Boathouse Features:
	•	TRIPLE-grandfathered double boathouse with:
	•	Shaded seating area
	•	Spacious deck
	•	Storage shed
	•	Two boat slips

Recent High-End Renovations:
	•	Full interior & exterior paint (home, boathouse, and shed)
	•	Resealed upper deck & new dock deck boards
	•	New electrical service at dock
	•	New LVP flooring throughout
	•	2023 replacement windows (all but one)
	•	2022 architectural roof
	•	New kitchen cabinets & quartz countertops
	•	New appliances
	•	Updated bathrooms with new tile, vanities, light & plumbing fixtures
	•	Professionally landscaped yard

Every detail has been thoughtfully updated—just bring your lake gear and start making memories.

📍 331 Pine Dr, Littleton, NC

🔗  http://www.lakegastonsunrises.com

Marketed by:
Crystal Dickens & Co
Pointe Realty Group
2105 Eaton Ferry Road
Littleton, NC 27850
252-326-4194
Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston's Best Realtor
🌳 This cul-de-sac lot in Wildwood Point is offi 🌳 This cul-de-sac lot in Wildwood Point is officially under contract! Just a short walk to the community boat ramp and water access.

Wildwood Point is loved for its pool, parks, swim area, two boat ramps, and unbeatable location close to everything Lake Gaston has to offer.

Visit WildwoodPoint.com to learn more about this great community!
💎 This rare gem on Pea Hill Creek didn’t last 💎 This rare gem on Pea Hill Creek didn’t last long! Homes on this coveted peninsula are rarely available—and now this one is officially UNDER CONTRACT.

🎉 Congrats to our sellers on this next chapter!
🙌 Turn-Key Rental Investment Opportunity!

☀️ Dreaming of earning rental income and owning a slice of Lake Gaston? 

This Pea Hill waterfront property is fully optimized for short-term rental success and comes with a proven rental history and 50+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ guest reviews.

What makes it investor-ready?
 • Turn-key setup with ALL furnishings, TVs, water toys, kayaks, paddleboat, jetski, and Polywood furniture INCLUDED.
 • New renter-friendly double boathouse with sunset deck, 8000lb lift, and one slip reserved for guests—a huge rental draw!
 • Recent upgrades: HVAC (2022), electrical, paint, decking, new washer/dryer, and more.
 • Stylish, updated interiors that guests love.

💰 This property is already generating results!

Learn more and view the listing:
🔗 www.lakegastongrouptherapy.com

📍 128 Crane Dr, Henrico, NC

Marketed by:
Crystal Dickens & Co
Pointe Realty Group
2105 Eaton Ferry Road
Littleton, NC 27850
252-326-4194
Licensed in NC & VA
Voted Lake Gaston’s Best Realtor
This weekend was spent doing a LOT of Mom-ing and This weekend was spent doing a LOT of Mom-ing and I could not think of any other way I’d rather have spent it !  Track meet, soccer tourney,  voice recital, and even a dance I didn’t get photos of - and we still have more fun to go !  Being Mom to Charlotte and Joshua is the greatest gift from God.  My faith in and dependence on him has grown more through Motherhood than anything else . And to think he loves us even more than the love I feel for my children. It’s just unimaginable.  To my amazing mom and ALL those who mother - Happy Mothers Day!!!!

Footer

Crystal Dickens

(252) 326-4194
Contact Crystal
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

sitemap   •   admin   •   ©2025 All Rights Reserved  •  Real Estate Website Design by IDXCentral.com