Inspecting a house is among the most important aspects of a real estate transaction. Therefore, as experienced Orlando realtors, we believe that homebuyers must consider every little detail before purchasing by learning what to inspect in a property to identify any potential issues, such as mold, leaks, and cracks, etc.
In this post, we’ll share 6 things to inspect when buying a house in Orlando so you can have a general idea of how home inspectors work so you can follow along. This way, you can save a ton of money by inspecting properties yourself before hiring a home inspector to examine your narrowed-down options.
6 Things to Inspect When Buying a House in Orlando
1. Walls, Ceiling, and Flooring
Cosmetic issues in homes are often caused by water damage and mold. As soon as you walk into a property, pay close attention to the walls, ceilings, and flooring to look for stains, peeling, discoloration, cracking, or bubbling surfaces. You’ll also notice a musty, decaying odor if the damage has escalated further. Any of these issues are signs of serious problems that require proper restoration before the space is livable.
2. Plumbing
To check a property’s plumbing, you can test the drains and pipes for any leaks by running the faucets in the kitchen and bathrooms. This will also help assess the conditions of the taps, faucets, and the overall water supply system.
3. Electrical System
There’s more to checking the electrical system than switching the lights on and off in every room. You need to check the electrical outlets and switches. If they look brand new, this could mean that the particular room or space was recently wired. All you need is a receptacle tester to check for issues, such as reverse polarity. However, you can skip this last part if you’re unfamiliar with electrical systems.
4. Foundation
The foundation is the most crucial part of a property as it helps maintain its structural integrity and holds everything together. In most cases, checking the foundation requires professional intervention. Nonetheless, there are some things you can check, such as uneven floors, drywall cracks, and jammed windows or doors. If you’re planning to buy an older house, you’ll come across many homes in Florida with these issues. To avoid this, you can ask your Orlando realtor to provide property or neighborhood recommendations according to your budget.
5. Basement
Basements are highly susceptible to water damage since they’re the lowest part of most conventional properties. They can experience damage in different ways, including sump pump failure, sewage backup, or burst pipes. When inspecting basements, pay attention to smells and indoor humidity. You don’t necessarily need a moisture meter for this. Look for condensation on cold surfaces, such as pipes or tiles. If the floor is damp, look for the water source to get an idea of how bad it is.
6. Roofing
Orlando experiences over 114 days of rainfall every year, so the last thing you want is to buy a home with roof leaks. Therefore, checking the roof would be worth the time and effort to ensure there aren’t any cracks, holes, or leaks.
Looking for an Experienced Florida Realtor?
And there you have it – 6 things to inspect before buying a house in Orlando. With this information, you can make a few inspections yourself before hiring a home inspector to further alleviate the risks once you’ve narrowed down your options. Whether you’re just started looking or haven’t found the right home for you and your family yet, visit Megan Dowdy Realty to get in touch with an experienced Orlando realtor or call 407-509-9279.
