When Home Inspections Find Housing Problems...

I was reading an article today from the National Association of Realtors, 6 Common Housing Problems that Spook Buyers, and found that there are some things that will make a buyer run from a potential property.

One of the important things the article pointed out was the importance of a home inspection and the need, if possible, for the buyer to be at the inspection. If you are at the home inspection you might have the opportunity to ask questions for clarification and understanding.

The article listed six things, or issues, that seem to cause the most fear: (I have added my own commentary to their information.)

1. Water damage. After walking through a house nothing worries potential buyers more than water spots or clear water damage. It was noted in the article that "all water damage isn't serious." One of things you will want to know is whether the water damage or leak is major or minor. While major leaks can be be quite costly, some minor ones may only require a few hundred dollars or less. So, it might be worth your while to get an estimate from a professional who can let you know how serious it is and what it might take to remedy.

2. Missing permits. In today's HGTV world, there are a lot of do-it-yourself types out there working on their homes. Something they might neglect to do is get a permit to do the work. Before you completely mark this off the list, the article suggests that you "ask the home inspector if the work was done well and meets code requirements..." If it was done well and passes inspection it might be a nice addition.

3. Code violations. Sometimes you might hear an inspector utter those words. Find out what it would take to bring the situation up to code. Often, in older homes, you might find plumbing or electrical work that is out of date. Some code repairs might be as simple as replacing a plug outlet. So ask.

4. Cracks in the garage floor. I have been in many homes and seen cracks in the basement floor or driveway. From talking with some inspectors, most of these cracks are nothing more than settling and are not indicative of structural problems. Find out from the home inspector whether they are or not. If they do suggest a problem, find out what the problem is and what it might take to correct it.

5. Termites. Damage or a presence of termites can be seen in a large part of the country. Alabama does have them, like most of the south. If they are found, first, they need to be gotton rid of. Once they are gone, you will be able to see what kind of damage has been done and find out what it might take to fix it. If your home isn't protected, we would recommend you getting a bond and regular treatment to prevent further occupation or damage.

6. Foundation cracks and other foundation issues. Cracks can be found in the foundation of many dated homes. If you find any, I would do as the article suggests and "Get an expert to inspect the problem and estimate - what if anything - needs to be done."