If you are thinking of buying a new home, then there are several factors that you will want to keep in mind. While you will want to think about the neighborhood, your commute to work and your family’s activities, there are many factors about each home to consider. Here are some things you will want to check out.
Check the Roof
You will want to make sure that the home has a good roof on it, and that it is only one or two layers thick. Many insurance companies will not cover the roof if it is more than four layers thick. Make sure that there are gutters, downspouts and other methods to carry water away from the home’s foundation. Examine the roof for any signs of mold as it can cause odor and health problems. Of course, you will want to make sure that there are no leaks.
Inspect the Foundation
Walk around the inside of the home to make sure that there are no cracks in the walls and that all the doors shut properly as both can be telltale signs of foundation problems. Move outside and stand on each corner of the home and look down the foundation to make sure that the walls are straight up and down. Posts under the house should be sturdy and be placed directly underneath the beams. If present, the concrete should not show any signs of cracking.
Look at the Heating and Air Conditioning System
Start by making sure that all visible ducts in the home are in great condition. Ask to see inspection and maintenance reports on the furnace and air condition systems. Inspect the outside air conditioning system to make sure that it is level and that it is not covered in vines. Then, turn on the home’s thermostat to make sure that both the heating and air conditioning systems get the interior to the right temperature. Since most people are not experts, this is a great time to ask your real estate agent if they can recommend an expert to inspect the system for you.
Examine the Electrical
It can be very expensive to repair the electrical system in a home, and you may need to do it before you connect to electricity. Make sure that the system is up to code with breaker boxes and main loops properly installed and functional. Think about whether there are enough plugins for your modern lifestyle. Ensure that there is 220-electricity in the laundry area. Look around the home for any signs that wiring has been damaged by insects or pests.
Use these ideas to make sure that the home that you are considering is right for you. By doing so, you won’t end up regretting signing the mortgage and buying the house later on.
