Too many home buyers have made the dreaded mistake of overlooking major problems with a home, only to realize it after purchasing the home. In doing so, their once-thought “investment” is now a devastating money hole. Here are three things every soon-to-be homeowner should inspect before buying a new home.
Structural Issues
One of the biggest, most common issues that homebuyers run into are structural issues or structural damage in the home. This could include structural damage of a deck or porch, or foundational issues within the exterior or interior of the home. Some symptoms of structural issues include cracks on the walls (inside or outside); separation or gaps within cabinets, exterior trim, or countertops; and sagging floors. Ignoring these issues can lead to severe damage or even life threatening situations—as well as budget-wrenching repairs. Some structural issues are not so readily apparent, so it is essential that you get a second opinion from a professional before making an investment on a house.
The Roof
The roof can be a tricky place to inspect without the necessary tools. Nevertheless, neglecting to inspect the roof can land you with an expensive and dangerous problem. Common signs of roof damage include a patchy roof, water stains, and curled shingles. These symptoms can reflect structural damage of the roof or other vulnerabilities of your home. And no one wants to wake up the morning after buying a new home with the roof caving in! Therefore, it is highly recommended that you consult with a home inspector before purchasing a new home.
Expired Systems
This little—but impactful—detail tends to be overlooked most of all. People are much quicker to spot a drooping ceiling or patchy roof before they are to read the fine lines of expiration dates. Before purchasing a home, make sure that you inspect any major systems within the home, including the heating system and the air conditioning system, to ensure that they aren’t well past their expiration date. Purchasing new systems can be extremely expensive, so better that the current owner or someone else handle the expenses and not you.
Before buying a home, it is imperative that you give it a good inspection. Even if you have experience inspecting homes, it is always good to get a second opinion. Contact your local home inspection company to get specialized advice before proceeding to sign on the dotted line.
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