What to Look for When Buying a House

What to Look for When Buying a House

The allure of a friendly neighborhood near popular restaurants and retailers makes it easy for some potential homeowners to jump in a contract. You may fall in love with the safe community, top-notch schools or even a home itself before realizing there are some major problems. That’s why you must know what to look for when buying a house.

There are a few essential things you must check before signing sale papers, regardless of whether you’re buying a historic property or a brand new home. An inspector can easily miss some issues, from windows that don’t open to outlets that don’t work. Check the areas listed below so you can spot everything from minor inconveniences to major issues before you purchase your next home.

Know What to Look for When Buying a House with Appliances

You might be thrilled when you discover your new home comes with a fridge or washer, but do they actually work? A fridge generally lasts about 10 years, but issues crop up in 40% of newer models 5 years after the purchase date. Washers are less resilient, and some break down after just a few years.

Hauling broken appliances can be a costly hassle, so check the following appliances before you leave a potential new home:

  • Refrigerator
  • Freezer
  • Microwave
  • Stove
  • Dishwasher
  • Washer
  • Dryer

If you decide the appliances are in decent shape, ask the owners or agent for repair manuals and warranty information.

Watch Out for Wonky Windows and Drafty Doors

Walk through the home and open each window and door. Do they open easily, and do they shut fully? If not, you may end up with a high electric bill or become a prime target for home intruders.

Hard-to-open doors and windows are also a safety hazard. If disaster strikes, you need to know you can enter or exit your home quickly and easily.

Keep an Eye out for Water Damage

When pipes leak or burst, you may end up with a moldy mess. Unfortunately, some homeowners aren’t upfront about plumbing issues. Take a look at the ceiling and walls throughout the home so you can make sure there are no signs of damage.

It’s also important to check pipes for signs of potential problems, such as:

  • Rust
  • Leaks
  • Cracks
  • Dents
  • Water stains

You can usually find pipes in the basement, but they may also be visible in bathrooms or the backyard.

Explore Electrical Panels and Outlets

Inspectors typically check electrical panels, but you should also take a quick look at the home’s box. Watch for wires that are frayed or tangled, as these may create issues in the future.

It’s also wise to make sure electrical outlets work in each room. Bring a phone charger or other small device with a plug, and check each outlet in the home. This includes bedrooms, bathrooms, the kitchen, and living room as well as porch and patio outlets.

Other Things to Look for When Buying a House

You might be eager to make a purchase after checking for the issues above, but there are still a few things to look for when buying a house. As you walk through a home, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Is this home move-in ready, or does it need major renovations?
  • Will the landscaping or layout cause issues when bad weather strikes?
  • When will repairs or replacements likely become necessary?
  • Does the house smell unpleasant, like maybe it has mold or mildew somewhere?
  • Are the vents clean?
  • Are any floors cracked, dented, or bumpy?

These questions offer insight into how well the previous owners maintained their home. They also help you prepare for potential repairs so you can budget accordingly.

What to Look for When Buying a House: Focus on Critical Features

When shopping for a new home, don’t get blindsided by perks like a neighborhood pool or immaculate flower garden without checking the essentials. Contact Thompson Creek if you need exterior renovations.. We install everything from windows, doors, siding, gutters and roofing, so you can enjoy your new home without any issues.