After your bid for a home is accepted, a real estate inspection should be performed before closing. This examination ensures there are no hidden problems that will cost you money down the line, and help you determine what the house is worth in case you and your agent want to renegotiate. While the inspector will review both the interior and exterior of the property, the following guide looks at three aspects that they—and you—should pay special attention to.

What Does a Property Inspection Look At?

1. Structure

While unevenness or cracks in the walls is a cause for concern, those in the foundation are even more so. These are hard to repair and can affect the whole building's structure.

The inspection report should also include information about the age of the roof and whether it is crooked or sagging. Asphalt shingles need to be replaced about every 20 years, while other kinds of roofs last longer; metal ones can stay strong for 100 years or more.

2. Health Hazards

There are many elements of a home that can affect your health, especially in older buildings. Your inspector should look for mold, lead paint, and asbestos, as well as perform radon testing or get an existing, recent radon report.

They should also test the water quality if the home relies on well water, and look for safety features like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

3. Utilities & Appliances

All of the home's systems should be checked over to make sure they're working and that there are no leaks or shorts. This includes the electrical wiring and breakers, the gas supply, the water supply and fixtures, the sewer or septic system, and appliances like the water heater and stove. Your inspector should take note of the age of these systems and the likelihood that you'll need an upgrade.

For real estate listings in Baxter County, turn to Gilbert Realty in Mountain Home, AR. They have access to a wide range of properties, including ones overlooking the lake and foreclosure homes, and provide reference materials and videos to help you make an educated buying decision. Call (870) 425-6282 to speak to a real estate agent about your wish list or visit their website to begin browsing.