Every real estate agent will recommend that you invest in a property inspection when you buy a home, as it will provide in-depth knowledge of the property’s condition. What the inspection finds may impact your decision about whether you want to buy the house and how much you want to pay for it. As you head into your escrow process, it’s important to remember that no property will come through an inspection without any problems at all. No house is perfect, so be prepared for the most common issues your inspector may find.

Common Inspection Findings to Anticipate When You Buy a Home

1. Inadequate Wiring

Outdated wiring is a common concern for homes that are 30 years or older. Their original electrical systems were not designed to handle powering modern-day appliances. It can also be an issue for home additions that weren’t built with the appropriate power supply. Old or improperly installed wiring can be a fire concern, so you’ll need an electrician to address this before you buy a home with this issue.

2. Poor Drainage

The ground around the home should be graded, or sloped, away from the house so that water will not pool around the base of the building. The drainage problem could also start with the roof; the gutters and downspouts should be installed and properly maintained so they safely direct water off the roof and away from the house.

3. Damaged or Old Roofing

How long a roof lasts will depend on what material it is; for example, asphalt shingle roofs last around 20 years while tile roofs can easily last more than 50. Proper maintenance with an annual inspection will maximize that life span. Some of the most common roof problems found in property inspections include damaged shingles, aging roofing materials, and water damage as a result of a leak.

If your inspection comes back with some issues listed in it, don’t give up your dream home. This is useful leverage as you buy a home; you may be able to negotiate a lower price or have the seller address any issues as a contingency of the sale. The local real estate agents at Lawrence Realty Inc. know how to negotiate on your behalf to make the most of your investment. As a family-owned and -operated business since 1948, they know exactly how to provide the best service for a stress-free purchase in Red Wing and the surrounding areas of Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Start browsing real estate listings online and call (651) 388-4745 to schedule a consultation.