Buying a house is a big commitment. You want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth and that you’re not going to get socked with big repair bills right after closing. These are some tips we give our clients on what to look for, and what to ignore, when they’re shopping for their new home.
Check it out
The roof
The roof is one of the most critical—and potentially expensive—elements of a house. A roof replacement in Maryland will set you back anywhere from $2,000 to $25,000. Make sure you know the age and state of the roof before you buy. If the roof is old or in need of repair, you can factor that into your offer, or move on to a different home.
Heating, cooling, and insulation
Heating and cooling systems can get pricey, too, and problems with them can be exacerbated by poor insulation. Ask the seller for a year’s worth of utility bills so you can evaluate how well the heat, air conditioning, and insulation work.
Plumbing
Plumbing problems don’t stop at bad smells and rotting wood. Mold growth as a result of a leaky pipe or faucet can cause serious health problems. Check throughout the house for leaks and mold, including under cabinets and in a basement or crawlspace.
The lot
Take a look around the house. Will rainwater drain away from the house or towards it? Is it clear where the property line is? Does the neighbor’s tree hang over your yard, and might that cause problems down the road? There may not be an easy solution to some of these potential problems, but it’s important to be aware of them before you agree to buy the house.
Don’t worry about it
The paint
A bad paint job, or even just a color you don’t like, is one of the cheapest and easiest things to change about a house. You’ll get a big impact for a small amount of effort with a fresh coat of pain.
The wallpaper
Wallpaper isn’t quite as easy to change as paint, but it’s not as hard to remove as you might think. Buy or rent a wallpaper steamer and it will come off in a snap.
The decor
The house may not have been updated this decade or even this century, but it will look like a whole new place with all of your own furniture and decorations in it.
If this seems like a lot to keep track of, it is. At Loeffler Realty, we recommend that our clients invest in a home inspection before they buy a house. A good home inspector will know exactly what to look for and will be able to identify current and potential problems in the house.
Most inspectors will provide you with a thorough written report that details such things as the age and state of the roof, how well the plumbing works, the condition of the heating and cooling systems, the quality of the appliances, and more. Hiring a home inspector can save a lot of work and stress for you while offering you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that a professional who knows what to look for has gone through the house.
Buying a home is a big step, and it can be overwhelming. We are here to help you.
Contact us today, or call 301-882-8186 so we can help you find what you’re looking for.
