If you are in the market for a new home and find one you like, having a walk-through is certainly an important way to find out if it is indeed your dream home. Yet while you may be mesmerized by certain aspects of the home, it is also important to keep an eye out for potential problems. Before you set out to embark on your next home tour, keep these important tips in mind as you walk around looking at various nooks and crannies.
Cracks in the Walls
While a small crack here and there in drywall is likely nothing to worry about very much, larger cracks or ones found outside on the home's foundation are another matter. Should you spot these, it may be an indication structural damage exists, or that leaks are a recurring problem.
Examine the Electrical Box
When you head down into the home's basement or utility room, take a few minutes to examine the electrical box. To begin with, look to see if there is any exposed wiring, or if the box looks like it has not been upgraded to match current technology. If you have any questions about this, make sure you address them with the real estate agent before you ever sign on the dotted line.
Check the Windows
While this may not sound extremely important to you, checking the home's windows can give you insight into many areas. For starters, making sure the windows open and close properly will mean the home likely has no structural problems regarding foundation movement. Also, making sure the windows appear to be of higher quality will mean your heating costs will probably stay lower in the winter.
Look for Fresh Paint
Even though you certainly want to see plenty of fresh paint inside any home you are touring, too much of a good thing can mean the house has issues. For example, if you see fresh paint in a room that otherwise looks as if it has not had much done to it recently, this could mean something needed to be fixed, or that the owners are trying to cover up something until a new buyer comes along. Rather than be left wondering, talk to the agent in charge of your tour.
By having a keen eye for the smallest of details when touring a home, you may be able to spot potential problems. Whether it is the windows, fresh paint, or cracks that look suspicious, addressing these concerns early on can help you avoid unexpected and potentially expensive problems later on.
