After months of searching, you’ve finally found your dream home. The excitement is palpable as you prepare to make an offer. Before signing on the dotted line, though, it is very important that you thoroughly inspect the property. While it might be tempting, don’t let eagerness cloud your judgment. A comprehensive home inspection will protect your investment and identify issues that may affect offer price negotiations.
Hire a Licensed Home Inspector
First thing’s first, you need to hire a qualified home inspector to carry out an examination of the entire property. Ask local real estate agents for inspector recommendations or search online reviews. Also confirm that any inspectors you consider are properly licensed and insured. Be present during the inspection to see issues first-hand and ask questions.
Expect to pay $300-$500 for a professional inspection. While costly, catching expensive repairs or safety hazards makes the expense worthwhile. According to the folks at Mortgage Maestro, you will need to provide the completed report to your Colorado mortgage lender as well (or whichever state you are in) to inform your financing decision.
Assess the Roof and Attic
The roof and attic are the most critical areas of a home to evaluate closely. Examine the roof carefully for damaged or missing shingles, age, drainage issues, and any noticeable wear and tear. Make sure the roof was properly installed and that it has several years of useful life left.
Plug in Electrical Outlets
While electrical issues often hide behind walls, basic outlet testing offers peace of mind. Plug a device into each outlet to confirm operation and appropriate voltage. Loose, damaged, or inoperable outlets could mean an electrical system that likely needs attention.
Open all light switches and fixtures to check for functionality as well. Signs of exposed, frayed, or improper wiring will need closer inspection by a licensed electrician. Ensure all outlets near sinks and other water sources are properly GFCI protected.
Turn On Every Faucet
Run all faucets and showerheads simultaneously to assess water flow and pressure at peak use. Check for leaks underneath sinks and around toilets. Look for cracks or heavy mineral buildup around sinks and tubs. Operate the garbage disposal and dishwasher several times ensuring proper performance.
Test HVAC Systems
Switch your HVAC system through every function – heat, AC, fan – listening and feeling for normal operation. Any grinding noises, lack of airflow, or limited temperature difference signal problems. Dirty filters or ducts will impact system health as well.
Check for Pest Infestation
Look for visible evidence of wood destroying pests and termites around the exterior and interior. Look in crawl spaces, attics, and unfinished basements for frass dust and droppings. Tap on siding, trim, and wood supports listening for hollow damaged areas. Plan to get a pest inspection if concerns arise.
Also inspect for rodents, bees, cockroaches, and other unwelcome pests. Their presence could indicate neglect by the seller or even faulty construction. Addressing infestations and extensive damage gets expensive quickly.
Assess the Structure and Foundation
A final critical task is assessing the physical structure and foundation for abnormalities. Look for cracked bricks and settling around the property. Inspect the foundation for bowing, cracking, or water intrusion. Check for level floors and walls that may indicate shifting.
Outside, ensure grading directs drainage away from the home. Improper drainage raises foundation issues down the road. While foundational concerns aren’t always deal breakers, they do warrant professional assessments and repair estimates.
Conclusion
Home inspections provide critical data as you evaluate purchasing a property. Take advantage of the chance to identify issues upfront instead of unpleasant surprises arising post move-in. Be present and engaged during the inspection, looking for red flags yourself in addition to deferring to the expert.
