Investing in a new home? Don’t get caught off guard.
There are a few things every homebuyer should check before taking the plunge.
When you purchase a home, you should feel confident about your new endeavor. Prevent unexpected costs after closing by checking a few home essentials first.
Read on for:
1. Date of Electrical Updates
2. Date of Plumbing Updates
3. Date of Major Appliance Upgrades
4. Any Reported Foundation Issues
5. Age of Roof
6. Age of Windows/Any Window Updates
1. DATE OF ELECTRICAL UPDATES.
Old or faulty wiring can cause major problems and safety concerns. Check the following:
- Ask to see proof of the dates of electrical updates.
- Check the home’s electrical panel for quality of workmanship.
- Bring a device like a phone charger to test all outlets in the home.
2. DATE OF PLUMBING UPDATES.
Inquire about the dates of plumbing updates and test the following:
- All faucets, toilets, and showers.
- Appliances that utilize plumbing, like dishwashers and laundry machines.
- Utility sinks and outdoor faucets.
- Check under sinks for signs of leaks, mold, or water damage.
3. DATE OF MAJOR APPLIANCE UPGRADES.
Appliances that fail to work as expected can be a major drain on finances. Inquire about the date of any upgrades and check all appliances, including:
- Fridge
- Oven
- Microwave
- Dishwasher
- Washer and Dryer
4. ANY REPORTED FOUNDATION ISSUES.
Investigate any reported foundation issues and keep an eye out for these warning signs:
- Sagging floors or ceilings
- Bowed walls
- Musty basement smells
5. AGE OF ROOF.
The age of a roof and its materials will help determine how much time it has left. A roof that’s older than 25 years might be nearing the end of its lifespan. Keep an eye out for:
- Cracked, buckling or damaged shingles.
- Shingle granules or broken pieces in gutters.
- A sagging roof is a sign of rot and will likely need to be replaced.
- Moss, mold or fungi growing anywhere on the roof.
6. AGE OF WINDOWS/ANY WINDOW UPDATES.
Windows are an important visual component in the home, but they should function well too. Don’t forget to:
- Check the age of windows and doors and see if any major updates were made.
- Open and close all windows, doors and shutters and check for drafts.
- Poor workmanship in these areas can drive up heating and cooling costs.
A new home is a big purchase. It’s important to feel confident about your investment. If you have questions or concerns about buying a new home, give me a call! I’m always happy to offer advice and guidance for this exciting endeavor.
