Buying A Home? Here Are 10 Considerations For The Inspection

Inspections are among the most important aspects of purchasing a new home. If you don't thoroughly evaluate the abode before signing the contract, you could take on a money pit of sorts - and one that ends up being far more expensive than the agreed-upon sale price.

Here are 10 tips to help avoid unpleasant surprises with your new home:

1. Inspect the inspector - More likely than not, you're going to bring a professional home inspector in to check out the structure. Bankrate, a consumer financial services company, states that not evaluating the person responsible for the inspection is the top mistake individuals makewhen purchasing or selling a house. You'll need to vet the inspector, ensuring he or she has a strong track record of getting the inspection right. Past that, you'll want to double check to ensure that the inspector is focusing on the areas below.

2. Flood history - Has the home experienced a flood? Even if everything looks clean and functional on the surface, flood damage can remain beneath the surface, potentially hindering the foundation's integrity or promoting the growth of mold. Look into the flood history, and ask for records related to the repairs made.

3. Drainage problems - HGTV, a home improvement television channel, suggests ensuring the grade slopes away from the house. Many homes will have severe issues with flooding even after tame storms should the grade drain in the direction of the home.

4. Signs of infestation - A bug problem can be a big headache for a new homeowner. Look for signs of invasive creatures such as bed bugs, ants, termites, cockroaches and the like before finalizing the deal, as these removing pests can be expensive.

5. Criminal history - It might seem extreme, but some homes have a criminal history that could endanger your family or impact the home's value. For example, was the home ever used to manufacture dangerous drugs? Make sure you get disclosures on any and all criminal activities that took place in the home.

6. Electrical check - This Old House, a website devoted to do-it-yourself projects, suggests taking a close look at the home's electrical features.

7. Heating systems - For air and water, make sure the home's current heating system is in good shape, as replacing this equipment can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

8. Insulation, windows, doors - The Old House, a home improvement publication, urges homeowners to inspect insulation, doors and windows to check for potentially costly or wasteful drafts and damages.

9. Appliances - In the kitchen and beyond, all appliances should be in working order unless the sale contract clearly states they need replacement.

10. Insurance - With inspection records in hand, you'll need to ensure you have the right insurance coverage to mitigate your new home's risks. Contact your independent agent today to #rethink your insurance.

For information on coverage, visit The Insurance Centers site or contact Zita Santos-Martinez at 732-832-4132

Photo and article courtesy of Selective Insurance Group