Home inspection can be a daunting task for anybody, regardless of how experienced they are. However, you should never forget that a house is more than just its décor. So, do not let the stunning home designs in Wainscott influence your decision too much. A home inspection can sometimes mean the difference between purchasing your dream home and entering a costly nightmare. With that in mind, here are some things to include in your home inspection checklist before buying.
Home Exterior and Foundations
It is not always about what is inside, there is a lot that can go wrong on a home’s exterior. Some things to watch out for include the condition of the foundation and stumps, and paint. You should also check for cracks or damage on external walls, and how the airtight doors and windows are.
Repairing such issues on a home’s exterior can be quite costly. Therefore, it is best to find a qualified home inspector to assess the extent of damage.
Gutters and Roof Plumbing
Although clogged or rusted gutters may not be an issue until the rainy season kicks in, they can be very costly if not addressed. Inspect the gutters and downspouts for rust, sagging, blockages, and holes using a ladder.
How about the stormwater drain? If this becomes clogged and water backs up, the yard may flood. You should also inspect the roof and flashings for damage. Major roof repairs can be very expensive.
Electrical Wiring and Lighting
Home rewiring might be one of the most expensive repairs you will ever have to pay for. Before buying a house, ensure all the switches work and turn on as they should. You can also test the power points by plugging in your phone charger and ensuring it works.
While you are inspecting the wiring, what sort of lighting does the property have? If you are buying an old home with old halogen or incandescent bulbs, you should consider upgrading to LEDs or something more energy-efficient.
Water Pressure and Drainage
Most older properties have plumbing issues because of their age. The most obvious things to look for include water pressure and drainage. Examine how the water flows out of the taps and showerheads in your home, and note how well it drains.
If the home has slow, or even poor drainage, this is an issue that you should request the seller to fix before you can close on a home. Alternatively, if it is a minor issue, Wainscott NY real estate agent Bill Williams can use it to negotiate for a price reduction.
Appliances
If the house you are considering purchasing comes with appliances, assess their condition. Appliances are not cheap, so if they are faulty, you might incur a huge cost in replacing or repairing them. Check everything, including the oven, ceiling fans, air conditioning, alarm, and other in-built appliances.
Work with Bill Williams to Discover Your Dream Wainscott, NY Home Today!
Bill Williams has the local expertise and knowledge of Wainscott to help you find a home that meets your unique needs. Bill’s vast experience, coupled with his desire to see clients realize their dreams, guarantees that he will guide you to the best property your budget can afford you. Whether you are seeking a luxury estate or a classic home, reach out to Bill Williams to explore Wainscott real estate.
