Springtime is arguably the most popular time of year to buy or sell a home. Putting your home up for sale or finding the right home to buy can be challenging enough without having to worry about hidden issues and costs. By expending a little extra effort upfront you can end up saving yourself lots of time, heartaches and potentially thousands of dollars in the long run. Here are 4 quick tips to be mindful of when you’re selling your home or in the market to buy a new home:
Stucco issues
If the exterior of the home you’re looking at has stucco, it needs to be inspected. Many stucco homes, even as new as 10 years old, are failing inspection due to issues such as incorrect application, water infiltration, and mold. It’s imperative to examine this before entering into any contract as it can turn into a very pricey problem. Many buyers are unaware of this because it often can’t be seen from the outside. If water gets behind the stucco, it can start to rot the house from the inside out. Depending on the amount of damage, repairs can range from a few thousand dollars into the hundreds of thousands.
Any type of laminated floors
If a home you’re considering buying has any type of laminated floors, ask to see the sales receipt and find out where they were purchased. Lumber Liquidators has been accused of using lumber from China that contains elevated levels of formaldehyde. If this is the case, it’s possible that formaldehyde could be emitted over time.
Roof age & condition
A roof certification is separate from a home inspection, but equally important. A roof inspector will report on the condition of the existing roof including possible movement, condition of roofing materials, integrity of the drains, downspouts, gutters, and flashing. If a roof is found to need repair or replacement, it’s best to know upfront so you can negotiate a credit, or have the seller replace the roof depending on the situation.
HVAC System
Repairs or replacements on an HVAC system can be pricey, so it’s smart to get them inspected during the home buying process. Make sure that your inspector tests the whole system (not just the AC if you’re buying in the summer, or the heat in the winter). Having an idea of what the inspector should be looking for is also helpful so you know they are covering their bases. Some of the most common things HVAC inspectors will check for are leaky ductwork, mold, elevated levels of carbon monoxide, and inadequate ventilation. You will want to have any areas of concern repaired before entering into a contract.
If there’s something you’re unsure of, it’s always smart to get a professional involved. Home inspectors know what to look for and can give you peace of mind that you’ve done the necessary due diligence.
If you missed reading this article before finding out you have a major home repair issue, call us. Souder Brothers Construction can help guide you through all of your major residential remodeling, renovation and home repair projects.
Happy house hunting!