Know the Home Inspection

When it comes to buying a home, what you see isn’t exactly what you get. No matter how much buyers love your property, a home inspection that reveals significant problems can turn them off.

There are numerous red flags that can pop up when getting inspected. Make sure you have a leg up and try and avoid any flags by completing this checklist.

 

Exterior:

Roof/Attic:

o Are there shingles missing?
o Is there flashing and trim installed?
o Are there any signs of leaks?
o When will the roof need to be replaced?

Foundation:

o Are there visible cracks on the outside walls?
o Are there any trees near the foundation?

Yard:

o Does the drainage slope away from the house?
o Are there any soggy areas you can identify?
o Are the walkways and driveway in good condition?

Interior:

Appliances: (If included)

o Do the appliances appear to be well-maintained?
o What are the ages of the:

Refrigerator? ___
Dishwasher? ___
Oven? ___

o Are there any leaks under the sinks (bathrooms and kitchen)?

Structural Elements:

o Has there previously been a fire in the home?
o Do the walls show vertical or horizontal cracks?
o Are there any stains on the floors, walls or ceilings?

Ventilation and Sub-Systems:

o Does the house smell? Can you identify the source?
o Do the heating and AC systems appear to be working?
o Does the water heater produce enough hot water?
o Is there a working exhaust fan in the kitchen?

Miscellaneous:

Electrical:

o Do all the switches work?
o Is each outlet properly grounded?
o Do the ceiling fans work?
o Has the electrical panel been recalled?

Plumbing:

o Are there any unusual noises?
o Do the faucets and other fixtures have enough pressure?

Garage:

o Check all of the following elements for signs of damage or wear:

 Slab
 Walls
 Ceiling
 Vents
 Garage Door
 Lights
 Openers
 Windows
 Roof

 

[list provided by: www.homeinspector.org]

 

An inspection should take at least a few hours. Try to be present so you can find out as much possible about the home’s condition, take your own notes and photographs, and ask about anything that concerns you

Should your review turn up a problem that can’t be easily fixed, notify a prospective buyer. You don’t want a potential buyer to feel you’re not honest or are trying to conceal known flaws. While it’s always nice to be able to correct problems before an inspection, that’s not always possible.

 

Have any questions? I am always happy to help!