Top House Hunting Red Flags All Buyers Should Know

It goes without saying that the purchase of a home is one of the largest transactions that you will make in your life. As the stakes are high, it is important that you are best prepared and are considering more than the home’s aesthetics and room count as you proceed with making a deal. Here are some great tips to follow as you are searching for your next home.

Check for Proper Ventilation
Homes that don’t have proper ventilation can be problematic. If moisture is not allowed to evaporate then it can lead to damage for your roof, walls and structural elements.

Rotten Wood
Wood that has been exposed to moisture will eventually rot over time. Common problematic areas in homes include the kitchen and bathrooms as they have plumbing. While inspecting the home, don’t forget to also check the exterior as well.

Appliance Maintenance
Inspect the major appliances that are in the home. Is the dryer lint trap dirty? Is the HVAC filter clean and has been recently replaced? These are good signs of regular maintenance.

Amateur Repairs
Check for the overall quality of the home. If an owner has been in the home a long time, often times there could be repairs that were made by the owner themselves that may not be up to code or done properly. These can sometimes lead to problems down the road.

HVAC Systems
OIder systems or ones in need of servicing can be less efficient and lead to higher energy costs. Find out the age of systems and if there has been any maintenance done on them.

Hazardous Materials
Older homes may have materials that are now deemed as hazardous. These include lead-based paint and asbestos. Other items you may want to check for include radon, mold or higher level of carbon monoxide.

Plumbing
Check under the sinks for proper drainage. Any dripping faucets or slow leaks can wreak havoc over time with regards to your home’s structure.

Electrical
Older electrical service in your home can cause often trips or a fire in the worst case. Check for any ungrounded outlets, lack of GFI outlets, older wiring and circuit panels.

Loose or Damaged Hand Rails
With exposure to the elements, railings can become loose or go missing. Inspect the home’s porch, decking and stairs to be sure they are safe and up to code.

Roof
An older roof can sometimes have missing shingles or worn flashing. Be sure there are no leaks as that can add to additional costly problems.

Storm Damage
All areas experience their harsh weather at times. Check to see if there are signs of damage from a past storm including roof, windows and doors.