What To Look for in a New Home
Purchasing a new home is a significant investment, so it's essential to check out each one thoroughly before making a final decision. Getting lost in a house's aesthetic appeal is easy to do, but there are many factors to consider before settling on the one that's right for you. Here are some things to look for when buying a new home.
Water Damage
Even if the house looks great on the surface, there may be underlying problems that are difficult to pinpoint unless you know what to look for. It's a good idea to check the ceiling and walls for signs of water damage. Look for discolored spots or mold. If someone tried to paint over the problem, you might be able to see bubbling coming through the paint.
If there is water damage to the ceiling, there may be a problem with the roof. While a patch can take care of minor issues, more significant leaks may require an entire roof replacement, which is expensive. If the roof has been leaking for a prolonged period of time, the boards underneath may also need to be torn up and replaced.
Even though you can do your own investigating, you should also schedule a professional home inspection. These specialists know exactly what to look for and can do a thorough job. An inspection may cost a little extra, but it's worth the expense, as it can keep you from buying a home with severe underlying issues, such as extensive mold growth.
Plumbing Issues
Check the sinks and toilets to ensure they're working correctly. After running water for a few minutes and flushing, examine the areas for possible leaks. It may be difficult to see the water droplets if there is carpeting, so you should physically touch the rug around the toilet or sink to check for moisture. If there has been a consistent leak for a lengthy period of time, there will likely be a musty odor in the air.
While doing this examination, look at the piping underneath the sink. The pipes should go into the wall. If they go straight into the floor, the drain probably isn't vented. Sinks should be vented to prevent clogging and keep sewer gases from leaking into the home.
You may also want to assess the water pressure. If you let the water run in the sink while flushing the toilet, and the water coming out of the faucet slows significantly, there is a water pressure problem.
Electrical Problems
It's a good idea to make sure all the lights are working and that the outlets have power. You can check the outlets with a receptacle tester. If the electrical system is old, you may need to have the home rewired. Further, outdated systems are dangerous and can cause fires, so electrical issues need to be immediately addressed.
Furnace Concerns
Don't forget about the heating system. Ask the realtor how old the furnace is and whether it was properly maintained. There may be maintenance paperwork, which will let you know whether a specialist did yearly inspections or had to fix any issues. A furnace that's well taken care of can last years beyond its expected lifespan, so it's paramount to keep up with regular maintenance.
You may also want to ask the realtor to adjust the temperature so you can witness the furnace running. Listen for any odd or concerning sounds, and make sure it shuts back down correctly.
Foundation Flaws
Visually inspecting the foundation isn't an easy task. Luckily, there are tell-tale signs that point to problems with the foundation. For instance, you may notice that the floor is uneven as you walk from room to room or that the doors and windows don't match up well, making them difficult to close. Additionally, there may be cracks or bulges in the walls.
Foundation issues are common in older homes and occur due to the ground shifting underneath the house. Fortunately, contractors can remedy this problem, but it isn't cheap.
Window Worries
Visually inspecting the windows isn't enough if you're considering purchasing the home. It's easy to see cracks or broken glass, but there may be more problems you won't catch by simply looking at them.
Take time to open and close every window, making sure they slide with ease and stay open on their own. Check for screens and ensure they're in good condition. You should also inspect the hardware to see whether anything is broken.
Door Dilemmas
While you should check every door in the house, the main ones to worry about are the doors that lead to the home's exterior. Even if you plan on changing the locks when you purchase the home, it's a good idea to make sure the current locks are in working order and that the doors open and close with ease. Each door should be solid and secure when closed, ensuring the home is safe from possible intruders.
Yard Mishaps
Check out the yard to see whether its size meets your needs. If so, look for areas where the grass isn't growing well and try to determine whether there's a problem you can fix. For example, if water gathers in an area after it rains, it may kill the grass. However, you can resolve this issue by adding compost or installing a draining system.
If you're determined to buy a house that has a yard, don't settle for less. You can always fix up a lawn that needs some work and make it a visually appealing part of your home.
You can remedy most house issues, but you have to decide how much you're willing to spend on repairs before purchasing a home. If you find a house you're in love with, create a list of everything that needs to be fixed and how urgent these repairs are. Doing so will help you decide whether the investment is worth your time and money. Don't rush the process; sooner or later, you'll find the right property at an affordable price.
