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Buyer's Guide
Many people think serious defects in a home are easy to spot. In reality, the most costly problems require a very close inspection to detect.
Jason Byun
Broker
When considering buying a home, look for these six telltale signs of serious problems. Catching them early can save you tens of thousands of dollars — or steer you away from a bad investment altogether.
Leaks are the most common problem with roofs and are tough to detect from outside. From inside an attic, however, you can often spot water marks where a leak is present.
Make sure you are confident that both water systems — the one that brings fresh water in and the one that takes sewage out — are functioning well before signing on the dotted line.
Before you agree to buy, ensure you can run all appliances and power tools simultaneously without a power failure. Also confirm the electrical system is safe and doesn't present a fire hazard.
Thoroughly inspect the heating and air conditioning systems in any home you are considering. These systems are expensive to replace and their condition should be a priority.
The paint inside and outside the house can reveal a lot about the underlying material. Check several walls using both your eyes and a screwdriver for soft or rotting spots.
Cracks in walls, doors that don't close properly, and uneven floors can all signal foundation problems. A bad foundation could be used to negotiate a lower price or require repairs before the sale.