What to look for in your new home

If you are planning on buying a home, you have probably heard some horror stories about people who have made big mistakes with their purchases. Try not to let a few bad stories worry you too much. The fact is, with a little forethought and some careful examination you can usually avoid problem homes – you just have to know what to look for.

Things You Should Look for When Buying

1. A roof that is on its last legs.

Roofs can only be repaired so much before they need to be replaced. And replacing a roof is expensive. Unless you want to be surprised by a bad roof, you will need to pay close attention to the roof of any home you are interested in.

2. Look deeper than the new paint.

Paint is cheap and easy to apply. That new paint job could be hiding structural problems that you want to identify. Things like cracked walls, broken ceilings, loose wires and other issues may or may not be able to be fixed easily. Have your agent look at anything you notice more closely.

3. Pay attention to moisture penetration.

Leaks, whether under the sink, in the roof or in the basement, let moisture into the home and cause major issues over the long-term. They can encourage the growth of mold. Leaks can also cause wood to rot and other materials to break down. You can hire a Calgary expert for basement development or renovations.

4. Smell for unpleasant smells.

Odors that are strong can be a sign of serious problems. The smell of sewage, for instance, can mean a damaged plumbing or septic system. Pet odors can mean that the flooring is damaged and stained with urine.

Our real estate team can help you make sure the home you choose is in good repair. Contact us today at Retter & Company for help finding quality houses for sale in Richland, WA.