Today's potential home buyers with lots of homes to choose from can be easily spooked by disclosures and the results of property inspections - even when the shortcomings are typical for homes of a certain age.

In a jittery market such as this one, it's critical to give buyers tools and knowledge so they can decide which problems are serious.

Agents do represent their clients but I always insist that my clients accompany the home inspector so they can put the problems in perspective. Anything a handyman or an electrician could fix in a few hours isn't really worth worrying about!  Buyers should be there to personally go thru the house and get first hand knowledge of any problems or repairs.  This gives buyers there first real chance to 'get accquainted' with their new home.

Here are six common issues that have troubled buyers in the past:

1. Water damage - Evidence of water damage frightens buyers, but all water damage isn't serious. Minor leaks generally cost no more than a few hundred to repair. Get an estimate for waterproofing.

2. Missing permits - Ask the home inspector if the work was done well and meets code requirements, even though a permit wasn't issued.

3. Code violations - How expensive is the repair? Ungrounded electrical outlets are common in old houses and easily fixed.

4. Cracks in the garage floor - Though unsightly ask the inspector whether these cracks suggest other related problems.  Generally these don't affect the structure of a home.

5. Termites or Carpenter Ants - Carpenter ants and termite damage are very common in many parts of the country.  It's important to get rid of them and to get a clear sense of how bad the damage is.  Often a good long range pest inspection service is enough to clear the problem and prevent future damage.

6. Foundation cracks and other foundation issues - Older homes often have cracks in the foundation. Get an expert to inspect the problem and estimate - what if anything - needs to be done.

At my website I offer my potential buyers tools and information to find out and estimate what it would take to fix the problem.  You can either do the work yourself or hire a contractor but either way it helps from letting your imagination run wild!

Cost to Repair Guide

Home Component Life Expectancy

NHB Life Expectancy of Home Components

These are just a few ways that a veteran real estate agent, like myself Lyn Sims, can help you in your journey towards buying your new home. More information for first time buyers and veterans alike can be found on my website or by calling me directly. I'm confident that I can provide the kind of exceptional service that will make this process an exciting one. Please don't hesitate to call or e-mail me with any questions you may have.

Lyn Sims RE/MAX Suburban (847) 230-7324   OR  Email her:   LynSims@remax.net

Having someone in your corner with over 20 years experience will ensure every detail of your purchase is handled smoothly!  Looking forward to hearing from you!

Northwest Suburbs of Chicago - Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Palatine, Elk Grove Village, Itasca, Medinah, Roselle, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles.