Looking for a new home? Watch for these common issues

Looking for a new home? Watch for these common issues

Have you found your new dream home? Congratulations! There’s plenty to do between the time your offer is accepted to the day you move in, but you might be thinking of what repairs you may need to make (or the ones that are a deal breaker). The inspection will provide a thorough list of things you need to watch for, but here are some common things you’ll want to look for as you search for a new home:

-Plumbing: Look for signs of leaks, clogs, and faulty fixtures. Has there been water in the basement? If so, how recently? Get as much information as you can, so you know what to expect if you decide to place an offer on the home. (Check for signs of water damage here.)

-Electrical: If you’re looking at an older home, make sure that all of the electrical panels are up to code, or that could lead to costly upgrades later down the road.

-Roof and Gutters: Watch for signs of roof damage. (Learn what to look for here.) Your realtor should be able to tell you when the roof was replaced. You’ll want to know before you make an offer whether the roof is in good condition or will need to be replaced in just a year or two.

-Foundation: Are there any foundation cracks? Are there any cracks in the basement that have been repaired? Cracks can indicate structural issues, and you’ll want to know that going in.

-Pests: Check in the attic and basement for signs of pests or animal intrusion, such as droppings, holes, or other damage. See our posts about attic maintenance and basement maintenance for more information.

-Drywall: Spot any drywall that looks like it needs repair? A little ding is no big deal, but major drywall damage can lead to deterioration or point to another underlying problem.

Moving is stressful enough without tacking on extra, unanticipated repairs. If you’ve purchased a new home (or are thinking about selling) and want assistance with these or any other projects, give Hunter Handyman Services a call at (815) 780-7884 for a free estimate and more information.