Inspect That House Before You Buy

Though there's no substitute for a pre-purchase home inspection by a professional inspector, the inexperienced buyer can nevertheless make an informed decision by paying attention to the following eight tips.

1. The age of a house should not necessarily scare you away. While older houses may require work, many have received excellent care from previous owners and their value will compare favorably with new structures. Ask what year the house was built and start your inspection looking for termite infestation, wood rot and other evidence of structural damage such as badly sagging floors, a sagging roof, or cracked walls or foundation. Always include a clause in the contract certifying a termite inspection and guarantee. Structural problems can and should reduce the price of the house unless the seller is willing to make the necessary repairs. If you will have to pay for repairs, get estimates of the costs before you sign anything!

2. In checking the electrical system, look for exposed and worn wiring and check the service panel for tripped breakers and scorching. Make sure there are enough outlets for your needs. Many older houses have 60 amp fuse boxes and may need to be rewired if you have a large family or use many appliances.

3. Check the general condition of the heating system. Turn on the thermostat and check all vents for hot and cool air flow. As part of the contract, have a furnace inspection by a bonded heat and air specialist.

4. The general condition of plumbing can be estimated by examining the floor around the tubs, sinks, and toilets to see if there are leaks. The floor will be weak or soft if there have been long-term leaks. Check all visible pipes in the basement or crawl space for rust or leaks. If the house has a septic tank, have it checked by an expert. Check the yard for damp soggy areas that have an odor. This is a sign of a septic tank problem.

5. Determine the general condition of the roof. Typical asphalt shingles will be good from 15 to 20 years. If the shingles are starting to curl or buckle, there is not much life left in the roof, In the attic, look for water stains from roof leaks; peeling paint is often a sign of a moisture problem. Are gutters and downspouts intact? Look for ponding or sunken spots in the lawn near the foundation where water may stand. Efficient drainage is necessary to prevent damp foundations and basements, so you may want to check where the water goes during--or just after--a rain.

6. Get proof of utility costs over the past 12 months. A call to the Electric Power Board and gas company will give you the high, low, and average cost for the past 12 months. Ask about the insulation in the attic, floors, and wall. Make sure windows and doors open and close square in the frame. Storm windows add value and save money over the years.

7. The condition of appliances should not effect the decision to buy a particular house, but if included in the sale, all appliances should be tested before closing to see if they are in good working order. Are there existing warranties on any of the appliances, including the water heater or furnace?

8. Check the surrounding properties. Are most homes owned or rented? If they are rundown, you will have difficulty maintaining the value of your property. Ask the neighbors about noise. Check traffic patterns during rush hours.

First-time home buyers often make the following mistakes: not asking the right questions, not looking for or seeing the important features, not thinking about the needs of the family, being too influenced by how the house looks from the street or being too influenced by the seller's decor. Do not be overly-impressed by the incidentals that come with the house or cosmetics such as fresh paint.

If you shop with a sharp eye and with these 8 points in mind, you will be more comfortable with your decision. Remember, if you ask the right questions, both the real estate agent and the seller are required by law to be truthful about the faults of a house.

Hiring a professional inspector will probably cost $200-300 and will be money well spent. Check the reputation of the inspector you choose. Do not pick one that is only interested in creating repair work for his company.

One more important point: there is no perfect house! Just be sure you know, in advance, the shortcomings of the house you are buying. Don't be shocked and disappointed after you move in.