If you are in the market to buy a house and are looking at homes that are not brand new, there are some things of which you should be aware. You don’t need to be a home inspector to know what to look for when buying a house. All you really need is to be aware of a few basic things that could be a warning sign that a house has issues. So, here are a few things to look for when you are shopping for a house.
Cracks
Cracks are always a warning sign that something is wrong. No one puts decorative cracks on the exterior or interior of a home. Some fine cracks are to be expected on a home, Cracks in plaster near the bottom of a wall are a concern; it could be a sign that the foundation itself has cracked or the ground underneath the house is shifting. It also could be a sign there is a leak in the roof that is running into the walls and causing plaster to crack.
Air Conditioning
One thing you don’t want living in Central Florida is an air conditioner that breaks down. When there are sweltering temperatures outside, you need to know that you can turn on your air-conditioner and it works. Look at the air conditioner itself. Check for excessive rust and things like leaves inside the unit. Look at the condition of the air handler inside. Is the filter dirty? Is there mold or mildew growing around the air handler? If the air conditioner is in bad shape, it’s likely so is the rest of the house.
Look at the Condition of Windows and Doors
Are the windows on the house dirty? Do the windows shut right? Windows that won’t open could mean that there are issues with the foundation.
Are doors hung right? Do the doors shut all the way? These kinds of issues with windows and doors are indicative that there are probably bigger issues with the home since smaller issues were not dealt with correctly.
Mold, Mildew, and Water Damage
If you see black spots on the wall, it could be a sign that toxic black mold is growing in the walls; this is an instant disqualifier. Mildew growing in the kitchen or bathrooms are a sign of excess moisture and could be due to plumbing issues.
Dark oddly shaped stains in the ceiling are clear signs of water damage and are most likely from a leaky roof. When you see water stains on the ceiling, it means that the whole roof probably needs to be replaced and is a headache you don’t need.
To Sum Up
If you follow these guidelines in what to look for when buying a house, you will be ahead in the game.
Megan Dowdy Can Help You Avoid the Pitfalls of Buying House
At Megan Dowdy Realty, we know if there are issues with a house and will be upfront with you about what repairs it needs. We can steer you in the right direction so that you find the ideal house without any surprises. Call us today or fill out our easy contact form. We will be happy to act as your guide in finding your next home!
