Don’t Buy A Lemon Property: The Importance Of Property Inspections

Property Inspections may not be a glamorous topic, but getting your home inspected by a qualified, certified Shoreline, WA property inspector is an excellent idea. This can help you know what’s wrong with the property, if anything, and maybe even ask the sellers to fix it.

You can also get an idea of what repairs the home may need in the future. Is it due for a new roof, water heater, or furnace in the next few years?

Today, we’re talking all about property “lemons” and how to spot them. A “lemon” is a property that may have some hidden defects that could cause major problems down the road if they are not addressed. Sometimes these can be expensive if you’re the one left holding the bag!

A Cautionary Tale About NOT Getting A Home Inspection On Real Estate BEFORE You Buy

I once knew an investor back in North Carolina who did NOT have a proper property inspection and the house that he thought was completely rehabbed, turned out to be a money pit that almost drove him into foreclosure. Here’s what you’re probably thinking when you run into the home of your dreams: “It’s cute. It’s charming. It is at a great price. ” You’re just about ready to commit. But something just doesn’t feel quite right. Today we are going to talk about listening to your gut, and the logical ways you can examine a home to determine if that feeling you’re getting is actually legit.

Let’s Talk About What You Need To Look For To Steer Clear of A Property Lemon

There are a few big things to look for when it comes to a home. Things like…cracks in the foundation or crack in the corners of rooms, erosion in the yard, bad smells, rotting or rusting, standing water where it shouldn’t be anywhere, and mold or water damage on ceilings.

These big items are definite deal breakers, but there are also some smaller items to be aware of when trying to determine if the house is a safe bet, or a money pit in the making.

A good home inspector can help you pinpoint these issues:

1) Electrical Work

Electrical is a big deal. Especially in older homes. Flickering lights or switches that don’t work are a red flag that there might be more work to be done.

2) Leaky Faucets

If water systems aren’t working well it could mean multiple things. Have your inspector check the sinks, tubs, toilets and showers for leaky faucets or rusted drains. Also check outside to see if there is any flooding, as it could mean bigger issues like a sump pump or backwater flow problem. Even low water pressure could indicate a bigger issue. So check everything!

3) Mold

This is a big (and expensive) problem and can be very dangerous. Have your inspector look around carefully to see if anything comes up.

This is Why You Need A Top Real Estate Broker

As a Shoreline Real Estate Broker, I will work alongside you and a trusted inspector to spot these potential hazards by knowing what to look for and what should be inspected sooner rather than later. I actually encourage my buyers to attend the inspection themselves so they can speak directly with the inspector before making any decisions to move forward in the purchase.

Let’s Work Together To Make Sure You Stay Safe

At this point, you may be convinced that you may need some guidance around the topic of avoiding a property lemon. But you may also be thinking that you have no idea where to start.

If you’re thinking about making a move, I can help you through the process. Just send me a message or text me at 206-395-6262. No pressure, no sales tactics, just the help and guidance that you need!

Learn What’s Involved in Buying Or Selling Property In Today’s Market

Finally, if you’re a resident of King or Snohomish County, I want to let you know that we take real estate very seriously, and when want you to be fully educated about the process. Click here to download our:

BUYER’S GUIDE

or

SELLERS GUIDE

So you can learn what you need to know to be an informed consumer in Seattle’s fast-paced real estate marketplace.

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Q & A Time – If we didn’t cover your questions in this video, let me know what’s on your mind, and I’d be happy to help. Please feel free to post any questions, comments, or concerns in the form at the bottom of this page. I always check when the forms are sent in, so I will be sure to follow up with you. Thank you so much for joining me today.

Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel so you don’t miss another episode of Let’s Go Seattle. I’ll see you in the next episode!!!

Need help and guidance about how the whole process works? We can help! Send us a message or give us a call at 206-395-6262 today!