Look Before You Leap – Some Problems You Don’t Want to Overlook When Purchasing Your Home

Often when we see a home we would love to buy our emotions may take over a bit. We may not think of problems that could arise when we have our heart set on a place. Here are some common problems that need to be checked when you are considering your purchase:

Roof

A roof that hasn’t been maintained can cause a lot of problems down the road. If your inspector says there are only a few years left or it needs to be replaced, don’t expect your seller to fix the problem. If you walk through a home and notice ceiling stains. It may be a simple as an overflowed sink but don’t assume it is a simple problem. This also could be a problem with roof or gutter damming of ice that may cause some problems.

Cooling/Heating Systems:

Check out the age or condition of both the furnace and air conditioner. Have both these systems been maintained? You should ask for invoices on the maintenance and purchase of these items. This can be a big ticket item you may not wish to take on after purchasing the home.

Environmental Issues:

Some older or more rural properties may have issues with mold, mildew or even asbestos in the attics. All these issues should be checked by your reputable home inspector. They can cause serious health issues. If you are thinking of buying a rural property check with the municipality for information on having the water tested. Most agencies suggest a couple of samples to make sure you get good results. The cost is minimal to have this done.

Electrical:

Take a visual check for any exposed wires which can cause a fire hazard. Make sure that you have GFIs in the kitchen, bathroom, laundry or exterior plugs. These receptacles are for your safety and should be within a few feet of any water source. Make sure any electrical panels are safe and have been inspected by a qualified electrician.

Plumbing:

A good home inspector will check for leaky valves on water tanks or notice any dripping from pipes that can cause problems over time. Some problems may be easy to fix a leaky faucet or loose toilet.

Septic:

If you are thinking of moving to a rural area, the septic system is one that needs to be check by a qualified septic inspector. The age of a septic system is very important as replacement of a septic system can be around $20,000.

Always make sure you have your intended property inspected. The Winch Walton Team can help you find certified professionals to make sure you feel secure when you purchase your new home. Check out the Winch Walton Team website for further information on buying, selling or staging your home