6 Things to Avoid When House Hunting

House hunting can be an exciting experience, but it comes with its challenges. No matter how new the property is, there may still be issues that can lead to large expenses. An Inspect-It 1st home inspector can find issues with a property and inform you about repairs the house may need. Here are 6 problems we recommend that you avoid when house hunting.

• Foundation issues. The foundation is critical to the structural integrity of your home. The problem is that many foundation issues are not visible to the buyer. Foundation repairs can cost several thousand dollars, and can lead to further issues down the road if not repaired promptly. If your home inspector mentions any issues involving the foundation, your best bet may be to walk away and continue house hunting.

• Roof repairs. Take notice of any visible damage on the roof. While you’ll still want an inspector to investigate, problems such as missing shingles or other roofing damage can give you an idea of how well the house has been maintained. A damaged roof can also lead to water damage throughout the home. The total repair costs could easily reach over $10,000.

• Siding replacement. The outside of a home can really take a beating from nature’s elements. Take a walk around the exterior of the home and give the outer shell a critical once-over. If the siding appears to be rotting, damaged, or rusting, be sure to factor that into your house hunting plan.

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). Another issue that you may not notice until you bring an inspector on board is the HVAC system. Does the home have a ventilation system, and if so, is it damaged? These are important things to note when house hunting. Replacing a furnace, air conditioner, or repairing ventilation can cost you thousands in unexpected costs.

• Deck repair. If the home has a deck, take a look for rotting or cracks. A deck is a major perk for many people, but a damaged deck can pose safety problems and a hefty repair bill.

• Driveway. When you’re house hunting, remember that you are investing in more than the house itself. If the driveway is damaged and cracked, it’s likely that a repair or replacement will be needed soon. If not repaired, it can cause damage to your vehicles over time.

These are not necessarily a deal breaker for everyone, however avoiding these while on your house hunting journey can save you thousands of dollars. Some issues are visible, but there are many things that may not be so obvious. Although it’s good to check for issues when house hunting, it’s still crucial for every home buyer to get a home inspection before making the purchase. At Inspect-It 1st, our experts provide you with a thorough, honest inspection so you have all the information you need about the property. Get in touch with us today!