Imagine that you have found a perfect house to settle down in at the neighborhood you intend to move in. It ticks all the right boxes, and even have the features that you want. However, during the touring with your agent, your agent finds several problems such as water damage or cracks in the foundation. Should you continue to pursue the home or give it up? Sellers may not always paint a truthful picture of the home. With their expertise and experience, agents will be able to find problems you may not otherwise spot. Read on to find out more about what you should look out for before buying a home.
Check for Issues with the Foundation
A foundation that is problematic can be very costly to fix. If you happen to spot any problems with the foundation, or cracks and floors that sag, there may be a foundational problem with the home. Other signs you can look out for are gaps between window frames or doors that stick out.
Check for the Roof’s Condition
Roofs should be changed every 12-15 years. When you inspect the roof, look out for shingles that are curling. If you do spot some, it means that the roof is very old and should be replaced soon. Ask your agent to check the roof together with you. They are able to check with the agent’s seller to find out the age of the roof and whether it needs to be replaced.
Check the Plumbing and Electric Systems
If you happen to see a faucet that is leaking, it may seem like an easy problem to repair. However, small signs like these could signal a bigger problem. If you are looking at an old home, you can ask your agent to find out about the age of the electrical and plumbing systems. It is important that these systems are updated for safety reasons.
Check for Water Damage
When you visit a home that you may potentially buy, remember to look out for signs of water damage in your home. Look at the floor and ceiling and check for any dark spots. If there are dark spots, it could mean water damage is present. Remember to have a look at the drainage system in the home as well. If the water drainage system is poor, it could result in water seeping in after a heavy storm, potentially leading to water damage.
Check for Odors
If you notice an unpleasant odor when you are touring the home, it could be a sign of mold, water damage, mildew, pests and more. There could also be a lack of ventilation in the property. Take note when a seller appears to be drowning out the odors with air fresheners or scented candles during the showing.
Check for Pests
If you notice pests like mice and bugs, it could mean that there is a widespread infestation in the property. These pests can be big trouble for the home, especially if it is infested with pests like termites that can destroy the structure of the home. You can also look out for bug droppings and rotting or hollow tubes that may indicate the presence of such pests.
Are you thinking about buying a home? Feel free to contact NJLux for help. We are able to assist you in finding the perfect property in your desired location and help to ensure that the house is in good condition and worth your money.
