A home inspection is a good way to track the condition of any house before you make that payment.
It is a buyer’s last opportunity to discover problems with the house and review the condition of the property before purchasing. And it’s a chance for the seller to address those problems and fix any previously unnoticed repairs before the buyer moves in.
A qualified inspector is always your best bet for a thorough home evaluation, but it’s a good idea to have a general understanding of what to look out for before purchasing. Below are the important things to notice.
Roof: The roof shouldn’t have any broken or missing tiles, shingles or ridge caps, as these components protect your home from water damage. Interior water damage can mean a roof leak, so if you see any, you need to alert the seller.
Drainage and Foundation: Improper drainage around your home’s exterior is one of several causes that can lead to foundation issues, both minor and severe. You need to make sure the house’s foundation is stable.
Plumbing: Pipes can freeze, swell and burst, crack, clog or become disconnected due to a worn-out washer. And when any of these instances occur, it’s up to you to make sure they’re fixed by a licensed plumber. Look out for any problems, such as holes, water leaks, pests, etc.
Electrical: Home inspection commonly encounter problems with electrical wiring such as reverse polarity, missing junction boxes, and damaged receptacles. Do not ignore these signs.
Interior: Look our for nail holes and minor dings and dents in the wall. If you see discoloration, such as water damage that’s been repaired, do not ignore these signs. Lastly, homebuyers should consider a complete environmental evaluation of the property before buying.