Buying a House Checklists : 8 Key Things to Check Before Buying a House
Buying a House Checklists : 8 Things to Check Before Buying a House
Buying a home is one of most significant financial decision made in a person’s life. Whether you are moving in or looking to rent out, here are a few things you absolutely need to check before buying a home.
Recognize a roof in need of repair
Before you ever set foot inside, check out what’s happening on top. Does the roof look relatively new or is it caving in? If the roof fault is eye-catching chances are it could end up costing you.
Don’t judge a room by its paint job
When you step inside your prospective abode, focus on the structural stuff — aging appliances, loose wires — and tune out any freshly painted walls or upscale decor. The foundation will be there long after the paint has started chipping and you want that to be what lasts.
Decide on your deal breakers
Aside from the basics, like quality windows and countertops, think about the purpose of your home and the requirements for your lifestyle, like storage for a large book collection or a big backyard for barbecuing.
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Plumbing: what lies beneath?
When you’re poking around a new kitchen, don’t stop at eye level — get underneath the sink and examine those pipes. Check for leaks, water damage, and mold.
Not only is mold unsightly and foul-smelling, but it can also cause health problems. If you live with a baby, an elderly person, or someone with asthma, you’ll want to be especially careful before moving in with mold.
Check out the land beforehand
Don’t just look at the building — examine the area around it. Is the house in an area prone to flooding? Is the driveway shared with another property? If there are fences, have they been built and positioned properly? It’s a lot to take in, but when you buy a house, you can’t ignore its surroundings.
Smell the roses (and more)
Do you smell sewage, gas, or anything equally unpleasant? Sewage systems in older homes can sometimes get clogged or damaged by tree roots. Luckily, some sewer or plumbing companies can send a camera through the pipes to detect any breaks or blockages.
Invest in a well-insulated house
Above all else, your home should be comfortable. Check the attic, water pipes, and heating ducts to make sure they’re properly insulated. This can reduce heating and cooling costs and keep you comfortable in summer and winter. Double-paned windows can also save you money down the road. Plus, they can help soundproof your place from outside noise.
Get your hands on everything
I mean that literally. Turn on every light switch, open every window and door, flush the toilets, even taste the water. Buying a house is a big step — maybe one of the biggest — and you need to know how everything works firsthand. That way, you can address problem areas and see if there’s a cost-effective solution.