Buying a New House? 5 Things to Check Before Moving InBy Kara Masterson
Editor's Note: This was originally published on RISMedia's blog, Housecall. See what else is cookin' now at blog.rismedia.com:
The Neighborhood You should feel comfortable with the quality of the neighborhood, which will influence the value of your home. Look at the condition of the other homes and check to see if people are loitering at different times of the day. The house should also be in proximity to your job, or nearby schools if you have children. Some individuals who don't have a family may want to purchase a home in a good school district due to the impact that it'll have on the value of the property. Storage Space The storage space that is available in the home influences how much clutter will be left out in the open. Look for plenty of storage space that is available in the bedroom closets or in the kitchen to ensure that you can comfortably fit everything that you own without feeling cramped. Plumbing System Run the faucets to inspect the water pressure and ask the owners if the pipes are insulated. Hire professionals to check if the radiators are working and if the hot water tank needs to be replaced soon. The Roof The roof is one of the more costly features of the home and protects the interior setting from damage due to environmental elements. Hire a professional roofer to determine the lifespan of the roofing material and if it needs any repairs. The tiles or shingles should be secure on the roof deck, and there shouldn't be any leaks present. Sufficient Drainage Many buyers make the mistake of overlooking the drainage on the property, but it can cause issues if not in good shape. Insufficient drainage can lead to severe structural problems in the home. Although it can be easy to fall in love with a house, there are several areas to check before making an offer to ensure that you won't run into problems down the road. By taking the time to inspect each part of the property, you can have peace of mind knowing you're making a good investment. |
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