Home prices and mortgage interest rates are staying low, and it's a great time for home buyers to invest in a
home. An important part of the home purchase process is having your potential new home inspected. Sometimes even the current homeowner isn’t aware of issues that could be a problem for you when you move into the home. Having a home inspection brings any potential problems to your attention, giving you the opportunity to correct them before you move in.
You might discover that the home is poorly maintained overall. Lack of knowledge, time or money can result in a home that isn’t well cared for. You can see signs of poor maintenance in peeling paint, cracks, or broken fixtures. A good home inspector will pick up on the little things that may have gone unnoticed in the electrical system, plumbing, HVAC system and structure of the home. Faulty plumbing fixtures and old piping might be discovered, or insufficient or out-of-date electrical systems. It’s obviously important that all components of the electrical system are functioning properly and are up to code.
Another common issue that home inspectors uncover is leaks. Signs of water damage could point to a roof leak due to damaged or deteriorated shingles or tiles, improper flashing, or a worn out flat roofing surface. Leaks can also be the result of poor caulking or weather stripping around windows and doors. Gaps or cracks here can also allow air flow that can raise your energy bills.
A good home inspector will cover all of the home’s major operating systems, structure and exterior factors such as grading and patios. If you’re making an investment in a home, you’ll want to know exactly what you’re getting inside and out.
