subject: Important Tips To Follow When Looking For A New Home [print this page] Important Tips To Follow When Looking For A New Home
One of the biggest things that need to be considered when you in the look out for a home is how old it is. Homes that are newer will have better and more efficient appliances and heating systems, older models may have to have upgrades that many can't afford. The age of the major appliances are also a factor. Hot water heaters that are more than twenty years old are very close to the end of their life, and may break down soon after you have moved in. While replacing the appliance itself may be reasonable, you also have to consider having it installed and these costs too.Even though you may be excited to see a bunch of homes, don't let looking for the right bedrooms and such put the blinders to other just as important aspects of looking at the home itself. It starts at the exterior. When you approach the home, look at the roof. Are the roofing materials secure? Are there any missing shingles, places on the edge where they may be pulling up from the roof itself? Are the gutters overflowing with debris? Then before you even go into the front door, do an exterior inspection. Look along the foundation, check for cracking and if there is any water pooling in certain spots, especially around any gutter down spouts. Look at the siding. If you see signs of wood rot, or if there are any damage to the siding, there can be major problems underneath.Sure, you can't take a pry bar and take down suspect areas to see what's underneath, but there are other things to be aware of that don't require pulling off dry wall or ceiling tiles. Upon entering the home, make sure that you check for any funny smells, even the slightest odor of mold or mildew can mean trouble. Look around at where the walls meet the ceiling. Is there any water spots, or is the paint starting to look like it has bubbles in it? These are sure signs there is some kind of leakage going on. In the basement, look again for cracks in the foundation if possible, and really check for gaps between the foundation and the home itself. Have your spouse go upstairs and walk around while you remain downstairs and listen if there are any squeaking of the flooring.Another major tip is to go upstairs into the crawl space or attic of the house. Look to see what kind of insulation is there. Look up to see if you can see daylight through the roof. Really look around and see if you see any telltale signs of rodents, feces, insulation that is shredded, and nesting materials.There are many other helpful tips and information online that will help you. You should always do your homework before just going in and getting too overwhelmed at the fact that you are finally able to afford your own place.
