Open inspections are a great opportunity for homebuyers to check the condition of the property they are targeting to buy. Buyers and investors should find time to personally visit the property to be able to make a guided buying decision. In fact, it would be a good idea to take down notes to keep track of the features that impress and don’t impress you.
A personal inspection of the home you are planning to buy can be done not only once. You can make several visits and while there, take the opportunity to snap photos of the different parts of the house. Just make sure to ask permission from the real estate agent before doing so. Further visits should be able to give you a real picture of the property’s condition and know its major and minor problems.
So what you should you look out for? Here are things that you need to be aware of.
Check for any obvious cracks in walls. Cracked walls can signal certain issues such as the house is sinking or needs the replacement of stumps. If large cracks are present, it would be best to get advice from a structural engineer.
Look for signs of leaking in gutters and eaves. Leaking gutters including roof that sag and broken roof tiles need repairs or replacement hence, it would be wise to ask about it from your real estate agent.
Also, look for obvious signs of recent patch ups or fixes that may be masking other issues. For example, peeling paint is a sign of moisture in the area while bubbles on paint can mean the presence of termites.
Find out if the floors are even or under foot. Floors that are sloping or bouncy could indicate the need to replace stumps.
Check if the bathroom or laundry has a smell of mould. Walls that have moulds signal excessive moisture in the area.
You may also ask the real estate agent or the seller for a due diligence checklist. They should be able to provide this checklist to prospective buyers at open for inspections.
Looking to buy in Melbourne and sick of missing out at auction? Talk to me about how I can help you buy your new home faster, for less.
Give me a call on 03 9686 2288 to discuss how I can help. I offer a free consultation, so why not call today?
By Wendy Chamberlain
Copyright 2017 | All Rights Reserved
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With a passion for all things real estate spanning 18 years, Wendy loves that her role as a Buyers Advocate gives her buyers an experienced voice they can trust when it comes to negotiating to purchase something as important as their new home or investment. Wendy considers it a privilege to be asked to help others realise such an important goal as home ownership and to be trusted with that honour. Get in touch today via www.FollowWendy.com for a no obligation chat about how Wendy can work with you and help you save time and money to secure your new home sooner.
