When families look to buy a house, many of them want it to be move-in ready with no damages or issues to fix. When you tour possible new homes, you must be on the lookout for any serious problems that will cause costly repairs and stress down the road. Here are a few things to keep in mind. 

5 Issues to Look For Before You Buy a House

1. Poor or Inconsistent Maintenance 

Dirty gutters, faded paint, leaky faucets, uneven tiling, burned-out bulbs, pet stains, and strange smells are all signs of neglect. One or two is understandable, but several of these issues can mean that the house is in overall poor condition. Determine if you want to buy a house that needs significant work on your part to get it back in decent shape.

2. Cracked Foundation 

You don’t need to worry about a small crack here and there, but large, vertical cracks could indicate that the home’s foundation is failing. This is especially true if the doors and windows get stuck or don’t shut properly, and if you notice that the floors are uneven or sinking in some spots. Torn wallpaper is an indicator as well. 

3. Faulty Windows 

Unlock and test the windows. If they don’t open easily or at all, it either means that the foundation needs to be repaired or that the windows were poorly installed. Either problem could be costly to fix. 

4. Water Damage 

Discoloration and water lines in the ceilings and walls both suggest water damage. Mold and mildew could be key signs as well, so look for them in the walls, faucets, and pipes— especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. Also, don’t ignore a strong, musty odor or dampness on the floors.

Leaks and floors that dip indicate poor plumbing. Have an inspector use a water testing kit to check for lead or other dangerous substances in the water.  

5. Electrical Problems 

Exposed wiring is a sign that the electrical system wasn’t installed correctly. To avoid fires and expensive repairs, stay alert for flickering or dimming lights, frayed wiring, and any unusual smells. The electrical system should be updated every couple of decades, so ask the Realtor® when it was done last.  

 
To help you buy a house that’s right for you, contact Jay Brower - Allen Tate Realtor in Greensboro, NC. Having built a solid reputation as a reliable and customer-oriented real estate agent since 2011, he boasts extensive knowledge and a sharp eye for what makes a quality house. He can also guide you through the process of successfully selling a house for the highest value possible. Organize a visit today by calling (336) 337-1887 or messaging him online.