Looking at a home- here are 9 things we recommend you look for before placing an offer.

The information below is provided by EFynch.com- Based in Baltimore, we are the regions friendly community for non-biased home improvement news, advice, and handyman information. 

(Baltimore, MD): In 1986 Tom Hanks and Shelley Long starred in a movie called The Money Pit. The premise is that a young couple buys the perfect home but shortly after moving in (. . . as they walk into the foyer), things quickly descend into home ownership hell. The movie is meant to be a comedy but for new homebuyers, the stress this young couple faces are things of nightmares.

The couple haphazardly rushed into purchasing the problematic home and, if EFynch was around then, here is the advise we would give the homebuyers to consider BEFORE placing an offer.

Exterior:

- Condition/ age of the roof:  A new roof can last 30 to 50 years depending on the quality. It can also be the largest expense if ignored. If the roof appears to have problems or is older, make sure to include this item in your offer and perform an inspection completed by a non-biased professional (not just someone who wants to sell you a roof).

- Condition/ age of the driveway: Like the roof, an asphalt driveway can last for decades when maintained. Do you remember the tiny exposed rocks that would trip your skateboard as a kid? They are signs of a neglected driveway and the more they are visible, the less life is left in the driveway. Also looks for cracks and indentations. This can be a sign of problems in the future.

- Gutters working properly: Look to make sure they appear clean (look out higher floor windows on lower levels, etc.). Downspouts should go at least 3' (feet), but 6' is better. If they do not, make sure to take note for future inspections.

- Envelop is sealed: The "Envelope" basically means the exterior of the home. Look and make sure there are not large gaps, holes, missing vents (in crawl spaces, attics, in the soffits) where animals or and moisture may have entered. When you close the front door, you want your new home to actually be "closed".

- Take note of large or dead trees: A large tree that falls during a storm can easily cost over $2,000. A rotting tree is more likely to fall and should be investigated. If you see dead limps or signs of rot, have an Arborist inspect the tree to give you an clear idea of what you have to deal with.


Interior:

- Water Damage: Is there any sign of water damage? Look for bubbling in paint or wood trim, mold, discolored walls or ceilings, fresh paint that does not cover an entire wall. You should also take note if you feel more than normal humidity in the air.

- Moisture/ Humidity levels: Speaking of water damage, if you are in the basement or another room and it "feels musty", make sure to take note and follow up. A home inspector can use a humidity meter or thermal camera to make sure there is nothing hiding behind the walls that should be addressed.


- General Condition: You want to try and determine if the home was cared for. Items like cleanliness, dust removed from under appliances, clear windows, upgraded items are all cues that the place is well cared for. If there are smudge marks on walls and scratched wood floors- make sure to put an emphasis on the home inspection.

- General Condition: Speaking of upgrades, take note on the age of the HVAC equipment and appliances. These can be expensive to replace or repair. If they are older, try asking for a home warranty to be included should you receive push back on your offer.





The items above are not meant to be red flags. Here at EFynch we believe that all of these items should not deter you from purchasing a specific home but (with professional help from a real estate agent), each needs to be addressed in the offer, contract, or at the very least, in your plan for future attention.





Disclaimer: EFynch is NOT a contractor or Handyman. We are an online community that helps homeowner and buyers obtain information to maintain and repair their homes. We are based in Baltimore, Maryland and the information is meant to be for conversational purposes only. Please see our Terms and Conditions.