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5 Signs That Fixer-Upper Might Be a Money Pit - Thinking of Buying a Home in Carmichael

By
Real Estate Agent with Real Estate Specialist -Rigley Realty Group 01391317 / 01472902

Mike and Jennifer Rigley (buyers) 916.378.4671 / (sellers) 916-660-5823 Info@RigleyRG.com
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Deals are always appealing, especially in a hot market. So if you're looking to buy a Carmichael house and you see the chance to nab a fixer-upper for a low price, you'll be tempted. Just be careful – sometimes that hidden treasure turns out to be a disaster. Here are five signs that the fixer-upper you're eyeing should be left on the market.

 

Bad Location

 

There are some things about a house that cannot be fixed, no matter how dedicated you are – like location. Check that the house isn't next to an unsafe natural formation. An unsteady hill signals shifting ground, which means an unsteady foundation for your house. Consider what you would if you were looking for a new house – proximity to schools or work; accessibility of public transit, green spaces, grocery stores; trees or a garden on the property. If there's nothing nearby, walk the other way.

 

Bad Layout

 

In any house, including fixer-uppers, the layout of the rooms is a primary indication of how (or if) the space will suit your needs. Pay attention to how the space is organized – like where the kids' bedrooms are in relation to the master bedroom. Keep in mind, though, that you can knock out non load-bearing walls and make more open-concept spaces – as long as you know which walls are which.

 

Bad Plumbing or Electrical Wiring

 

Simple: if the plumbing or electrical system needs an overhaul, leave that fixer-upper alone. The cost of fixing those problems will outweigh the benefit of anything you save on the house itself.

 

Badly Done Renovations or Repairs

 

If a house has had major renovations and is still listed as a fixer-upper, be warned. The renovations didn't take the first time, and will have to be redone. Similarly, be wary if the house shows signs of natural disaster damage (flooding, foundational damage), or if there have been rooms added. They could be illegal additions, not to code. Avoid these!

 

Bad Bones

 

This is the most important thing to watch for when fixer-upper-hunting, because these are the problems that will take time and money and energy, potentially turning your deal into an ordeal. The bones are the physical fundamentals of the house – the load-bearing walls, the foundation, the structural integrity of what's holding it all together. If there is anything questionable about the foundations or the drainage – look for slanting floors and water damage, for example – this isn't the fixer-upper for you.

 

We all like a good deal – but when looking for a house, be careful to consider what could turn a fixer-upper into a money pit. For referrals and advice, reach out to your local real estate agent.

 

 

 

To stay up to date with Carmichael Real Estate news log on to www.rigleyrealtygroup.com

 

Are you a local hero looking to buy or sell a home in CarmichaelCLICK HERE to find out about the Home Benefits for Heroes savings program NOW! Former and active Military, law enforcement, firefighters, health care providers, first responders, and teachers are but a few of the everyday heroes that may be eligible for home buying and home selling discounts through Home Benefits for Heroes

 

 

Looking for a top Carmichael realtor? Call the Rigley Realty Group  today at 916-378-4671 or log on to www.RigleyRealtyGroup.com to start your on-line home search now. Call us today – you’ll be glad you did.

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Thanks for joining us,

Mike & Jennifer Rigley

RigleyRealty Group

916-339-7061

Cal BRE # 01391317 / 01472902 

 

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Whether you are buying or selling a home, Mike and Jennifer Rigley of the Rigley Realty Group are your go to local Realtors. Their strong focus on assisting homeowners in need and offering a free straightforward no nonsense consultation, is why they have been named one of "Americas Best Real Estate Agents for 2013". 

  

  This is not intended as legal, technical, or tax advice. Please speak with a licensed professional before making any decision. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed as of the date of writing. The views expressed here are Mike Rigley's personal views.

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