It can be tough to navigate the real estate market, especially if you are new to the idea of buying or selling a house. When you are planning to sell, your main goal will be to get the best price possible. This will depend on the home’s current condition. There may be a few problems that you don’t know about even if you have lived in the house for years. A home inspection will highlight areas that are in need of repairs, but you can do a lot on your own before you hire a professional home inspector.
Basically, two things can happen after you get an inspection report. One is that you may decide to sell the home as is, with the buyer having a full understanding of the repairs that are necessary. The other scenario is that you may decide to undertake the repairs yourself. This way you can restore the home to its prime condition which will allow you to increase the asking price. Contacting different contractors and sourcing materials can be a hassle, but this is usually the best course of action.
Home Inspection Hotspots
Typically, there are a few areas where a detailed inspection will tend to unearth problems. This is not an indicator that your maintenance is lacking. Almost every part of a home has a life span, and routine maintenance can sometimes miss minor damage. Here are some things to look for on your own before you begin the process of hiring an inspector or real estate agent:
- Mold and mildew: Moisture buildup in areas such as the bathrooms promotes the growth of fungus. Aside from an unpleasant smell, these growths can have a toxic effect. This will put off any potential buyer, so it is best to deal with it right away. Otherwise, it can force you to take a big chunk out of the asking price.
- Roof damage: Missing shingles and minor leaks are common roofing problems. Even newer tile roofs sometimes develop problems due to poor installation. The roof can also be damaged during other types of installation jobs and the weather.
- Poor wiring or electrical problems: It is a sad fact, that electrical installations are not always handled by certified professionals. Determine whether the electrical panel suits the needs of the house. Wiring must be done according to local building codes, and you shouldn’t consider selling your home if you feel that it needs electrical work – that’s a big job that most new homeowners are not interested in.
- Plumbing problems: Leaking faucets are easy to spot, but problems deeper in the system require a proper inspection. Leaks can cause damage to walls and undermine your foundation. Call on the services of a local plumber if you fear that your home may have plumbing problems.
An official home inspection might deliver a few surprises, but you can check out several of these issues on your own before the inspection. Repairs you make before the inspection won’t end up on the official report, making your home appear even more attractive to prospective buyers.
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