While the presence of mold in a house doesn't have to be a deal-breaker in a home sale, it should give the prospective buyer some pause. There are specific considerations to bear in mind when buying a home that needs mold remediation. Below is a more detailed discussion of a few of these factors.

Looking for Mold

First, a potential buyer should look for signs of mold in any home that they tour. Mold may not be readily visible, so an in-depth inspection may be necessary. Mold can be black, brown, green, white, or even orange. But your first sign may not be the physical sight of mold at all, but the smell; it has a musty, stale odor that hangs in the air.

Look closely at floors, walls, and ceilings, especially around areas where there are signs of water leaks, such as damp areas, dried yellow stains, or rippled surfaces. Pay attention to attics, basements, and crawlspaces. Check the windows as well; an early warning sign of mold is a buildup of condensation, indicating excess moisture in the home—and the right conditions for mold growth.

The Effect on Home Value

In Wisconsin, homeowners are not legally obligated to perform mold remediation before selling a house. However, that doesn't mean that mold won’t impact the price they get for the property. The home inspection process will often determine the presence of mold and its causes. Depending on the extent of the growth and the severity of the cause, they may need to adjust the selling price.

For instance, if there is mold growth in the bathroom stemming from a water leak in the wall, the buyer should negotiate a lower price to account for the cost of mold remediation, plumbing repair, and bathroom renovation. Don’t rush and cancel your plans to purchase a specific home because it has mold, but make the issue known to the present owners so you can work together.

When you need a mold remediation service in La Crosse County, WI, depend on America's Best Cleaning & Restoration Services. They offer mold testing and removal, as well as carpet, rug, furniture, and air duct cleaning. They have been serving area homes and businesses for nearly three decades and look forward to restoring your property to pristine condition. Call (608) 782-6995 or visit them online to schedule service.