There are a number of common problems home inspections find, with issues relating to the property's systems, components, and even appliances and amenities. When you're in the market to buy a home, it's very important to learn as much about a house before you commit to purchasing it. Even if the property is new construction, most real estate professionals advise to get a home inspection. This is because although the home passed a building inspection, it doesn't mean there aren't issues lurking unseen. So, let's take a look at the most common problems home inspections find.
Common Problems Home Inspections Find
Even though the law requires sellers to disclose known system and component defects, it's inevitable some homeowners are not aware of certain problems. You could live in a home for several months and not know a problem exists because it's simply out-of-sight or too minor to notice. Eventually, most issues will make themselves known and by this time, it could seriously increase the extent of damage and cost of repair.
...buyers are often tempted to do anything to get a home. One thing they should not do is forgo the home inspection. For buyers, waiving the option to have a professional inspection contingent on their offer to purchase a home can have major repercussions in the long run. Sellers tend to like these offers because it essentially means they are selling the home ‘as is’ and are not responsible for any thing that is not immediately visible. --Realtor.com
The fact of the matter is, home buying is a long process, taking time to clean-up credit reports, save for a down payment, inspections, and closing costs. In addition, there's the house hunt itself, which can take many weeks to find the right property. Because buyers are anxious to get into a new home, they are tempted to forgo a home inspection. That's very risky proposition and one that could easily lead to a mountain of buyer's remorse. There's no substitute for being in-the-know; so, here are the most common problems home inspections find:
- Faulty systems. When home inspectors go through a property, they are looking for "material defects." These are problems which are considered to be health and/or safety issues and/or negatively affect the value of the home. Problems with electrical wiring and plumbing are considered material defects and are among the most common problems discovered.
- Faulty components. The components to the home are things such as the foundation, roof, trusses, windows, doors, and so on. Faulty or damaged components generally come with a big repair or replacement price tag and are also quite commonly found during home inspections.
- Structural issues. There might be an issue with the foundation or the grading, leading to poor drainage. A faltering foundation is a huge concern because it's one of the single most costly repairs needed on a home.
- Poor upkeep. The current homeowners might not keep the house in good condition, meaning there are cracks in the driveway, worn carpeting, old wallpaper or paint. While these are not typically costly fixes, they are among the most common problems noted in home inspections.
- Hidden damage. There are other issues such as mold, asbestos, lead paint, and similar problems which aren't known until a home inspection is completed. These examples are considered material defects and are most often found in older homes.
If you are on the house hunt for a property in Copper Canyon Ranch, along West Hope Drive, down North 146th Avenue, over by West Desert Cove Road, or elsewhere Surprise or in Maricopa County, give us a call to learn more about home inspections and the local real estate market.