How to Avoid Buying a Bad House
If you are considering the purchase of a home it is important to keep in
mind that you should not only know what to look for but what to avoid as
well. Many homeowners discover after the fact, when it is too late, that
they overlooked items which frequently result in buyer's regret. To make
sure this does not happen you, it is imperative that you learn what to
avoid when buying a home.
The first thing that should be kept in mind when looking for a house is
that while generally a new home will offer more advantages over a resale
home, even new homes can have problems and defects. The good news is
that most problems in a new home can be corrected. Before you purchase a
new home; however, you must make certain that you understand the
warranty that is offered by the builder and make sure you go ahead and
have an inspection performed on the home just to make sure that no
serious defects are overlooked.
When buying any home it is important to make sure you avoid any home
that appears to have mold and moisture problems. Now, with that said, it
should be noted that all homes will have had mold or mildew at some
time. That is just a simple fact of life. When a home has excessive mold
and moisture; however, the home can become ruined. This is because
excessive mold and moisture can be almost impossible, if not completely
impossible, to remove. Some homes with severe mold and mildew cannot be
repaired at all.
Homes with radon should absolutely be avoided. Radon is a naturally
created gas in the rock and soil of the earth's surface; however, some
reports indicate that residents who live in homes with radon may be at
an increased risk for developing cancer.
Of course, homes with asbestos should also be avoided. For a number of
years, it was routine for asbestos to be used in materials such as
insulation, fireproofing, floor tile and roof shingles. When asbestos
related materials are in good condition, it usually does not cause any
problems. When it deteriorates; however, the particles can become
air-borne and result in a fatal lung disease.
Always make sure you know whether the home contains any lead based
paint. In most homes built before 1978, lead based paint was used. Lead
based paint can result in brain damage to children who accidentally
ingest it. If the paint is in good condition it is usually not a
problem. You are entitled to have a lead-based paint inspection
performed on the property.
It is also a good idea to avoid homes that may have formaldehyde and
carbon monoxide. Formaldehyde can be a problem in manufactured home
which may contain materials manufactured with formaldehyde. Formaldehyde
has been known to cause dizziness, rashes, headaches, throat irritation
and coughing.
Carbon monoxide can result from wood stoves, kerosene heaters, water
heaters, gas stoves and fireplaces that are malfunctioning. It can be
deadly. The easy way to detect and solve this problem is to install a
carbon monoxide detector.
Defective well water should also be avoided. If the home you are
considering relies on well water make sure that your offer contains a
contingency clause that is based on a test of the quality of the well
water.
You should also check to make sure that the home's septic or sewer
system is in good repair. If the home relies on a septic system, be sure
it is located a good distance from the home.
Although tests on the subject of high-voltage power lines have been
inconclusive, you may also wish to avoid homes which are built near
high-voltage power lines. If for no other reason, the presence of
high-voltage power lines should be avoided due to the impact on the
home's value.
Additionally, make sure there are no property and boundary disputes
regarding the property before you purchase it. This can result in
numerous problems which are often more of a hassle than the property is
worth.
Finally, avoid any homes with problems that might affect the
desirability of the property including location in a high crime rate
district, poor quality public school district or an area that is noisy
or has little public transportation.
Remember that while no home is perfect, taking the time to watch out for
and avoid homes that have serious problems can help to ensure you
purchase a home you will be happy with for a number of years into the
future.
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