The inspection process usually takes two to three hours during which time the house is examined from the ground up. it includes observation of the following items: plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and appliance systems, as well as structural components, such as the roof, foundation, basement, exterior, and interior walls, chimney, doors, and windows... Most of these things you will notice the inspector repeating when you are walking through with him.
Did you know there are things you can look for, before an inspection, that can tell you about the house? It's true. Here are five things that all home buyers should be on the lookout for when viewing a home.
First, look for water damage, leaks, and mold. You are looking to buy what could be one of the most expensive purchases of your life. So, look beneath counters, behind doors, and under sinks Is the water on? Do you see evidence of leaks or of moisture build-up? Are there tiles rotting off walls or dampness under sinks? Don't forget to use your nose. You can smell moisture, when it's bad, as soon as you enter some homes.
This goes double for basements. This is also a great way to inspect joists for rot or termite damage as well as basement walls for damage, which could indicate foundation issues.
Next, is the age and state of some of the more costly repairs and replacements. Ask about the functionality and age of appliances, water heaters, siding, and paint. What you see is what you get and with some of these items you should be able to tell by looking if the paint is peeling or the siding is falling off. Knowing when you'll need to replace these items next can help you at the negotiating table.
The third item is to view the attic. You can tell a lot about a house by looking at the attic. Is the house properly insulated? If not, what are the average heating and cooling bills? Does wiring look safely installed? Is there mold? Are there any exposed wires under the sink or sticking out of the ceilings?
Fourth, walk around the outside of a house. This is why it's a good idea to look at housing when it's not too icy or snowy. You want to be able to see the foundation and look for any visible cracks.
Finally, look at landscaping and be sure it's not too close to the house, which can cause moisture issues. Large trees can also cause root issue for both plumbing and foundations. You can also diagnose foundation issues by looking at the inside walls and ceilings of the home. Are you in an area that is common to earthquakes?. Are there large cracks? Is the house shifting and settling?
These tips are no substitute for a professional inspection of the property, but they can give you some real clues as to whether this home is what you're looking for or willing to get into. Tips from this blog were from Carla Hill.
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