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When inspecting a "fixer-upper," many factors about the property have to be considered in choosing the right property. Many people hire an inspector who can walk through the property, analyze it, and tell you the potential problems with the house and its surroundings. In short, inspectors are like "insurance" that work for your benefit and help you make a good investment decision. In this article you will see some of the factors to consider when evaluating a "fixer-upper." Exterior defects of the property — Home inspectors usually do this for you before closing. They look for exterior defects in the building like the quality of the foundation, leaks in the roof, and cracks in the walls. This part of the inspection is very important because the overall strength of the building is determined by the strength of the foundation and possible damages caused by environmental factors like pollution, rain, etc. Examine the doors, windows, and the driveway — The windows, any wood-work and the driveway should be examined for any visible defects. The quality of the wood-work, windows, doors, and the wooden panes have to be examined to determine their strength, any signs of termite damage, and quality of the material used. Check inside the property — The condition of appliances, ceilings, sinks, and ventilation and cooling units should be checked as well. Any damage or deficiency should be noted, and could add to your cost if you don't bring it up in negotiations. Also any paint and interior structures should be examined, as well as checking for mold. Check the basement — The basement area has to be checked for any water leaks or visible cracks. The condition of the basement is important and could cause problems down the road. If any damage is found in the basement, details should be added to your evaluation report. Check safety of electrical wiring system — The "fixer-upper" should be evaluated for safe wiring and proper grounding. Any unsafe wiring in the building should be noted as well. Check the plumbing — The plumbing of the "fixer-upper" should be checked for any leaks in the pipes or other abnormalities. The proper water flow and the pipe pressure should be checked by a plumbing expert to find any potential problems. Heating and cooling systems — The building has to be checked for effective heating and cooling systems in the house. Adequate airflow and ventilation in the house should be checked inside the building. Age of heating and cooling units should also be determined. Check for insects — The property should also be checked for any damage created insects or termites which may have damaged wooden materials.
It is always recommended to have an expert check all of the above in the evaluation of a "fixer-upper" or any other house. The inspector will prepare a report based on the findings of the above examinations. These observations are crucial in understanding the condition of the property and determining a proper price for the property.
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