Never buy a home without first inspecting it. This process can save you a lot of money. As with all investments, buying a property can be risky. However, the unknown can be reduced (if not completely eliminated) by taking the time to perform a thorough inspection of the facility and the various systems. On the other hand, you would check the financial situation of a company, its product lines and the markets in which it is present before investing. If you don't inspect the property or hire a professional to do it for you, you could find yourself doing expensive repairs.
By inspecting the house before you buy it, you will know immediately what you will encounter. You may have no problem making repairs at your own expense, but you should be aware of the exact condition of the property. For precise control, prepare a checklist from the areas indicated in this article.
Steps
Step 1. Check your heating system
In particular, examine the boiler.
Step 2. Check the plumbing
This is especially important if a well is present.
Step 3. Check the septic tank
You should be aware of information such as the date the system was installed, the last time maintenance work was carried out, any signs of surface leakage, etc.
Step 4. Inspect the cables
This includes examining the electrical protection system.
Step 5. Inspect the roof and floor structure
Look for any damage caused by moths or other insects and don't overlook moisture and rot. Also check the material the roof is made of, including paint and gutters.
Step 6. Check the porch, if any
Evaluate structural integrity, possible wood rot, damage caused by moths, etc.
Step 7. Evaluate the condition of the driveway
Has it been well cared for or has it deteriorated due to poor maintenance? Are the stone slabs in good condition? Do the underground pipes have leaks?
Step 8. Check the steps leading to the porch, if any
Evaluate the damage caused by salt (scattered during snowfalls), the presence of crumbling structures, the health risks to which you would expose yourself in the presence of certain materials.
Step 9. Check the condition of the sills
If they are wooden, there should be no signs of rot or termite infestation.
Step 10. Check the condition of the kitchen, bathroom furniture and counter tops
You should notice missing or chipped knobs, locked doors (check the sliding shower door), missing doors or drawers, space problems you would have (for example, if your boiler or dishwasher takes up a lot of space and there is no enter, you may not be satisfied).
Step 11. Check the windows and doors
Evaluate general condition and the presence of dry rot.
Step 12. If you find flaws, you don't necessarily have to turn down the house
- A purchase offer may include a clause explaining what needs to be repaired before finalizing the sale.
- Another solution is to offer a lower selling price, based on the cost of the repairs you perform yourself. Before making an offer, ask for a quote for what needs to be fixed.
Step 13. Consider when to do the inspection
It is common to do this before making an offer and signing the sales contract. However, it can be completed after making the offer and after the seller has fixed what needed to be repaired. In some cases it is possible to take out a mortgage only after conducting a mechanical and structural inspection by a qualified professional. However, while it's not mandatory, you should still do it.
Always reserve the right to cancel the offer or renegotiate the sales agreement if the home inspection reveals significant defects
Step 14. If you decide to hire an inspector, accompany them at the time of the inspection
Follow him and ask him questions. It is important to know what it controls and why and to know the status of each area. Hire an inspector if you are unsure whether you can carry out the verification in detail. These professionals have the right training to analyze in a more thorough way than a buyer, without neglecting anything.
