Home Inspections Help You Make Sound Buying Decisions

Face it, buying real estate is a very big step. Many people put up their life savings as a down payment for that dream home, considering it an investment in the future. It is that, but it would be more of a sound investment if those buying property would take the time for a thorough home inspection. It's easy to fall in love with that flower decked façade and red brick entry, but it's what is underneath that fresh paint that is most important. Some of the following areas need special scrutiny.

The Foundation is Key

The foundation is just that, the underpinnings of your home. The merits of the entire property rest on this bit that keeps the home from sinking into the topsoil. It's not necessarily high on the list of items promoted in a home, but don't let that fool you, or deter you from that closer look.

Inspections on foundations include making sure your home's underpinnings are in good shape and that they are well placed. Sometimes you will see evidence of foundation problems from inside the home. Tilted walls, uneven floors or cracks are indications that there may be a problem. Make sure you have these issues checked out, it could cost you big bucks later if you just let them go.

Look Up – It's The Roof

A good roof keeps the rest of your home snug and dry. A bad roof lets in moisture, causing a host of problems from out and out ceiling leaks to water seeping in between the walls. A roof inspection should look at uneven roof spots, check out possible drainage issues and make sure all shingles are accounted for and secure. Since a new roof can set you back some $10,000, this is a definite case of being safe and not sorry. Get your real estate agent to find out when the last time the roof was repaired and/or replaced. Supporting documents are preferred.

Check Out the Appliances

The appliances in that kitchen might look just fine but it's best to make sure that they really work. Age is also a factor. Dishwashers should be new or close enough. AC compressors are expensive to replace so make sure that is in good shape. Check out the stove, fridge and anything else that is included. Updating a kitchen is expensive and probably not something you want to consider right away, unless you are buying a fixer upper to begin with. Appliance manuals should be available from the seller.

Bottom line for all home purchases is to check out what you are buying before you sign the dotted line. You wouldn't buy a car without test-driving it, would you? The same philosophy should apply to buying a house, even more-so because your home is an even bigger investment.

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