What Should Be Checked When Inspecting Your Chosen Homes for Sale

The Importance of  Home Inspections

Buying a home is essential, but it’s a big thing to do. It’s a commitment and it’s a bit of a worry, too. You want to know that you are getting something that is worth what you are paying for it. In vehicle terms, you don’t want to buy a lemon. So, what kinds of things do you look for when you are out kicking the tires on a house you are interested in? Here are some things that should be checked when you are inspecting a home for sale in Lake of the Woods, VA.

Basement and Attic

The Basement and Attic both let you know if there are any water problems in the house. Go up to the attic and down to the basement and look for leaks, water damage, musty odors, or mold. You shouldn’t see any rotting wood, or any evidence of water at all in either place. Check the plumbing in the basement for any leaks. And, while you are in the attic, make sure the insulation is sufficient for the house.

Plumbing, Electrical and Temperature

Make sure there are no leaks in the plumbing in any part of the house. Keep your eye out for water stains, sagging floors, and mildew. Turn on the taps and flush all the toilets to assess the water pressure. As for the electrical system, find the fuse box and make sure it is easy to access and in good condition. Check the house to make sure there are enough electrical outlets. The kitchen and bathroom outlets should have circuit interrupters, which can prevent shocks. Finally, look at the heating and cooling systems. Make sure they work and are the right size of the house.

Exterior

The outside of the house can tell you a lot, so take a good look. Check the drainage by looking to make sure the gutters and downspouts are okay. The water should be drained away from the foundation of the house. Driveways should not be cracked or crumbling; shingles and siding should be in good condition.

Ceiling, Walls and Floors

Again, you are checking to make sure there is no leaking or water damage inside the house. Any cracks in the walls and ceilings may be a sign of structural damage in the house. Floors should not slope or be weak in any areas.

Doors and Windows

Open and close everything to make sure they do as they are supposed to. Windows can also indicate moisture, so notice any mildew.

Garage

Check out everything in the garage that you looked at in the house. The garage floor should not be stained or cracked, and the siding should be in good condition. Make sure the garage doors work properly, and ensure that water is draining away from the garage.

When you are buying a house, it’s important not to rush into anything, and it’s definitely important to look at more than just the location when considering whether or not a house is right for you. Just because it’s located in Lake of the Woods doesn’t necessarily make it your dream home. Look at all of the factors before you buy a house so you have a general idea if the house is worth making an offer on, but don’t neglect the importance of having the home inspected properly by experts before you finalize the sale, too.