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Leah TenBieg

Inspecting your potential dream home

Wednesday, July 26, 2017 - Article by: Leah TenBieg - Prospect Home Finance - Message

After weeks and maybe months of searching for your dream home, there is no better feeling than finally finding it. The moment you decide this could finally be the home you purchase, you need to also decide how and when you will inspect it before signing the final papers. You might have been in every room multiple times, but were these thorough walk-throughs? By knowing the specific condition your future home is in before you actually move in, you will save money and time. It's best to know exactly what you are getting into before moving in. Read below to see some imperative parts of your potential home a professional inspector should look at.

The roof

Replacing a roof can be costly. With that being said, be sure to have this part of the house inspected closely. Loose shingles could mean you might need a roof repair in the near future. If there are a lot of trees around the house, make sure the gutters are sturdy enough to hold leaves when there is heavy rain.

The plumbing

A water leak is another issue that could cost you money when you move in. Not to mention, water leaks can damage wood floors, cabinets, and furniture, so this is not a problem that you will be able to deal with later. Make sure the sewer line is checked for any cracks. Test all sink faucets to be sure they are able to produce hot and cold water.

The electricityAll outlets and light switches should be professionally inspected. Any cracks or defects in outlets are red-flags.All wires and boxes should be neatly secured to your home in a place where they cannot get damaged. While inspecting this portion of your home might seem simple, do not perform this on your own. Professionals will know how to safely inspect this aspect. Also, make sure the smoke alarm is working properly. This often gets overlooked but it is best to have it checked out before move-in.

The exterior

The structure of your home is prone to many defects. Cracks in the driveway could be caused from growing roots, but they could also grow bigger and become a safety hazard. Check to see if any part of the yard is filled with water. This will let you know if there is a drainage problem. All windows should be inspected carefully so any cracks are not missed.

Depending on how much you are willing to spend for repairs, there is a chance your prospective home is not for you. However, if you are satisfied with the inspection of the home you fell in love with, you can start to really get excited and begin your packing.

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