5 Things Every Homebuyer Should Think About

House Hunting Red Flags Every Buyer Should Watch For

So, you’re looking for a new home! It’s exciting to think about getting all (or most) of the things you’ve always wanted in your next house. It can also be overwhelming. When home shopping, things aren’t always what they seem. All the bells and whistles of a shiny new home could distract you from making note of questionable issues. Some surface issues are more damaging to the value of the home than they seem, while others are easily fixed. Before you are buried in paperwork or possibly shelling out money for multiple inspections, consider these five warning signs that you might need to walk away.

Flickering or Dimming Lights

When you turn on a light, turn on or plug in an appliance, or attempt to use a device, do the lights in the room flicker or go dim? The electric panels, wiring, or cables may need to be updated with upgraded versions because the current components aren’t able to handle the load. If an increase in the capacity of the existing electrical system is needed, an electrical remodel or electrical service upgrade is usually required. The home may simply not be operating with sufficient power to handle the increased demand of the various appliances and devices used in today’s households. Don’t be afraid to call an electrician to figure it out.

Cracks or Doors That Stick in the Frames

Cracks in the walls or along the ceilings, or doors that stick in their frames could indicate warping in the house frame, or a possible problem with the home’s foundation. While minor cracks in older houses are not usually indicative of a serious issue, these conditions should be checked by a structural engineer. Lange Engineering, LLC, specializes in providing engineering services including: foundation inspections and analysis of residential properties in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Burning or Melting Odors

If you smell something burning, obviously there’s a problem. An odor of burning rubber or melting plastic are clear indications that the safety of the home is at risk.  Electrical wiring could be shorting out, melting, or becoming too hot behind the walls. This home should be inspected by a professional without delay. KBM Electric is a locally-owned, family-operated business with more than a decade of electrical experience. Fully licensed and insured, professionally trained in the latest electrical technologies, KBM work is guaranteed.

Mold

Do you see mold in the kitchen or bathroom? Check the pipes, drains, and plumbing for a leak. Mold can also indicate a ventilation problem. Look closely at any tile work: if the tiles look muddy and the area feels damp and slimy, mold could be beginning to grow on them. Don’t ignore mold odors even if you can’t see any mold. Often a moldy smell may be the only sign of a problem. Feel free to call Zeus Restoration to help check out the issues you may be encountering.

Roof Problems

Check for damage, rust, or indications of a leak. Also keep an eye out for missing, cracked, or sliding tiles. If missing or lifted tiles have left a space where water can get in, that water can freeze to ice in the winter months, expanding and causing more damage. You’ll also want to make note of any sign of sagging in the roof line, which can be a sign of a structural issue in the roof frame. If you see damage to your roof, contact New View Roofing to quickly and efficiently assess your roof’s condition and give you the best options for fixing any problem with it.

Before you make an offer, it’s important to ensure your dream home won’t stress you out and empty your bank account within months of moving in.  A house that looks great at first glance can turn out to be a money pit if it has one or more expensive problems. A little due diligence and attention to detail can save you from a financially and emotionally stressful purchase. Always make sure to have a professional inspection before committing to a home purchase, but it’s wise to perform your own inspection, as well!

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