Purchasing a new home can be exciting and nerve-wrecking at the same time. There are so many factors you have to consider, such as location, price, amenities, etc. You also have to find the time to physically look at the houses that you are interested in, and this can be difficult and time consuming.
When you’re shopping for or buying a new home, it’s very important that you take the time to look through the houses and inspect them properly. There are specific things you should look for that can make or break whether you decide to make an offer on a home. Some of these items can be fixed while others are deal breakers. Check out the following list to learn about the five things that you should absolutely look for when buying a new home.
1. Foundation
The foundation of the home is extremely important, so you need to look at it thoroughly before deciding if it’s the right home for you. Go into the basement of the home and look for cracks. This could be a simple fix, or it could be something more involved. If there is no basement, try to inspect the foundation from the outside of the home. Again, look for cracks in the foundation or any signs of trouble. If you notice something suspicious, either have a professional come and inspect it, or forget the home as an option.
2. Attic
You should go from the bottom of the home to the top. Make sure you look inside the attic when walking through a home. Try to look at the condition of the roof boards. If you notice signs of warping or water damage, the home is probably in need of a new roof.
If you can’t get into the attic, try to do a quick look at the roof from the outside. While you may not be able to get up close, you should be able to see if there is damage or warping roofing shingles. If anything concerns you, have it inspected.
3. Faucets and Drains
Aside from foundation and roof repair, water issues can be extremely expensive to fix. Not only should you look for signs of water damage, especially in bathrooms and basements, but you should also ensure that the home’s drainage system works properly. Turn on every faucet in the house and see how the water drains. If you notice anything backing up or any faucets that don’t work, have a plumber inspect the sink or faucet to see if there is underlying damage.
4. Windows
Windows not only provide light and fresh air into the home, but they’re also supposed to keep the outside in during winter months. Make sure that all the windows properly open and seal. If you notice condensation between the window panes, it means a seal is broken. If left unfixed, this can cause you to lose energy, which can cause higher energy bills.
5. Electrical
Do your best to inspect the electrical while at the home too. Make sure to hit switches to see if they work properly, and look for signs of electrical damage. If something seems off to you, you can either ask the homeowner about it, or you can hire an electrician to come and inspect it. Knowing that the electrical is in good working condition before you buy can ensure your safety.
Although doing thorough inspections on a new home will be time consuming, it’s important for your overall safety. If you’re not familiar with the condition of a home or what you should be looking for, have your home professionally inspected. This way, you can learn more about the home’s condition, and use that to make your ultimate decision as to which house you buy.
About Author: Joel Cordle is working for Dwellaware. DwellAware provides a online search web application to help prospective homebuyers easily and confidently find the most comfortable, highest quality home that best match their needs
