Which Home Repairs Should Come First?

If you’re the fixer-upper type, you may have even opted for a home with a few repairs. This can be a great option if you want to save a few bucks or renovate the home to your style. But after the home inspection, a lot of home buyers can become stressed about the number of repairs they actually need.

Suddenly, their visions of paint colors and new fixtures get put on the back burner for things like a new roof!

So how can you prioritize your “new” list of priorities? Here’s my advice:

Start with the electrical: If your electrical system needs an upgrade, this should be your first priority. Sure, sometimes electrical is just annoying, like when your lights dim when you run an appliance. At worst, though, it can be a fire and safety hazard. Electrical has been known to start fires, which can mean that you’re at risk for a fatality in your home. Put this at the top of your list.

Look for structural damage: Structural damage in a home’s foundation can lead to even bigger problems, like cracking and shifting of the house. You can spot damage like this by noting at cracking in cement or masonry work or even small piles of dust, which could be a red flag for termites. While a lot of people think structural damage equals a big price tag, the cost will only go up the longer you let the problem persists. Tackle this project right away.

Roof and gutters: Pay particular attention to your roof and gutters’ functionality. They’re more than just pretty features for your home; they’re there to protect the entire structure. For instance, if your roof leaks or your gutters dam up with ice in the Winter, you could be looking at serious issues inside your home, like mold, electrical issues, and even insects.

CNN Money also has a great list of repairs, along with what the replacements will cost you.

So how did you decide which project to tackle first? Did it come down to budget? Or did your home inspector advise you on which were the most pressing?