Shopping for a home can be the most exciting time or the most tedious time. It’s important to make sure you are making the most of your time and you are paying attention to the little details that can make or break your decision, as well as tell you more about the home and its condition. Here’s a list we put together of 5 things to keep top of mind the next time you go and view a home:
1. Condition of Windows
• Are they original? Have they recently been replaced?
• If replaced/newer – When were they replaced?
• Keep an eye out for any cracks, missing screens, issues with the locking mechanism, can you feel a draft? (if so is a seal broken – condensation in between the two panes (Clear sign the Argon has gone)
2. Electrical
• Check electrical panel to see if they are fuse or breakers
• Look for ESA Sticker in the panel if the electrical was updated
• How many amps? TIP: 60amps need to be updated to 100amps to support modern appliances
• Plugs – 2 prongs or 3 prongs? TIP: 2 prong is ungrounded and not updated to code
• Make sure all the lights work in all the rooms of the house
3. Plumbing and Leaks
• Look under the sink for signs of leaks
• Taps – does the water turn on, is the tap secure, any leaks?
• Check for leaks in the basement or signs that there was a leak – efflorescence (white residue left behind after water dries, salt deposits, on foundation/concrete block, etc…) TIP: The best time to view homes to check for suspicious possible leaks is when it’s raining
• Any signs of mold where there are damp or wet areas in the basement
4. Exterior of Home
• What’s the condition of the exterior walls (siding, brick, etc.) – siding falling off, brick crumbling, any holes?
• Eavestrough falling off or incorrectly installed – example; water pooling beside the house and not being directed away
• Roof condition – shingles peeling, faded, worn? Do any shingles need replacing? Can you see any plywood?
5. Workmanship/Renovations
• If recently renovated or some updates done to home – has it been slapped together quickly or looks like a handyman special? Example: trim poorly installed, doesn’t line up correctly, poor paint job, kitchen cabinets were thrown together (gaps in between or not level), flooring uneven, signs of sagging in floor or ceiling (support walls removed and no beam put in or it was installed improperly)
• Finishes that look poorly done and thrown together can be a sign of the quality of the renovations behind the walls.
We hope this helps to make your next trip house-shopping that much better! For all your real estate needs, The Doyle Team has got you covered. #TheRealEstateProfessionals
