When you are ready to buy a new home, the process can be very exciting. Once you find the home of your dreams, you are very eager to finalize the deal and take ownership of the property. But before you do, there are certain things you should check for to ensure the home you think is your dream home is not really a nightmare. Before you buy any new home, here are some common things you should check for right away.
Pests and Insects
In almost all homes, it is not uncommon to see a few ants or other pests once in a while. However, if you happen to find more than a few ants or perhaps mice or even termites, you may want to rethink things before signing any contract to buy the property. This will be especially important if you are buying an older home since they are more prone to having pest problems.
Plumbing System
When you buy a home, never do so until you have had its plumbing system checked out from top to bottom. This should include looking for leaky pipes, making sure the water heater works properly and ensuring the sewer system is up to par. Also, look for signs of hard water issues, which may require the need for a water filtration system.
Foundation Issues
When you are considering buying a home, always take a close look at its foundation. If you notice various cracks in the walls or notice certain doors and windows get stuck and are hard to open, the home may have structural issues of which you are not aware. If you ignore these warning signs and purchase the property, you could be setting yourself up for thousands of dollars in foundation repairs before you ever move into your new home.
Mold
Finally, if you notice a musty smell in the home's basement or elsewhere, there is a good chance mold is growing inside ceilings or walls. Should you find mold on walls, flooring, or other spots, you should have the house thoroughly inspected before signing on the dotted line. In many cases, homes that have been prone to having wet basements have this problem.
A new home you want to buy may look fantastic, at first. But a closer look may reveal some problems that need to be addressed right away. Have a careful eye and do not sign a contract until you have gotten a reasonable explanation for any existing problems. That way you can make sure your next new home is indeed a dream home.
