There’s no denying that first time home buyers sometimes do have unreasonable expectations when it comes to buying a home. Therefore, it’s highly crucial that if you’re a buyer yourself, you should know how to perform an in-depth inspection of the house that you’re planning to invest in.
To help you out with the same, we have formulated a brilliant checklist of all the elements that you should be attending before you plan to purchase your new home – in collaboration with a home inspection in Gwinnett services.
The Home Inspection Checklist For Every New Home Buyer
Always pay close attention to the following areas that breed the maximum amount of trouble:
1. Exterior
Please take a look at the downspouts and gutters present at the exterior of the house and ensure that they drain water efficiently.
2. Roof
Ensure that the roof has no such dark spots and is practically stain-free. Moreover, there should be no growth of algae or moss. Make sure that you ask the seller concerning the age of the roof and whether it was replaced anytime in the past.
3. Foundation
Watch the foundation of the house for any significant cracks that can prove to be deadly later on as water can seep through it and damage the entire basement. Furthermore, if there are any trees nearby to the house, ensure that the roots of the trees are not invading your house’s foundation. The ground encompassing the foundation should also be dry and not moist or squishy.
4. Doors & Windows
Ensure that all the doors & windows close and open quickly and effortlessly. There should not be any misaligned door or window, because it will be a sign of moisture present inside the house.
5. Odour
In case you smell any unusual odours, then you should talk to your real estate agent or home inspector right away. Most of the times, the odour can be present due to VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) or due to the growth of mould. Both of the factors mentioned earlier are harmful to human health.
6. Basement & Attic
Inspect the basement of the house for any clear signs of damp or moisture. Moreover, the attic, as well as the basement, should have adequate insulation, which will lead to lower electricity bills in the long-run.
7. Cooling & Heating
In case the house you’re proposing to purchase has in-built HVAC systems, then you should do the honour of checking the same as well. Ensure that the systems are functional and know the age of the systems as well. Typically older HVAC systems tend to be less efficient and can cause problems – leading to expensive repairs later on. Times like these are when you need to replace the entire HVAC system. If the HVAC is new or has been recently installed, then you’re good to go.
