When purchasing a home, it is essential to have the property inspected by a professional house inspector. Before you hire a professional, however, there are a few things you can check on yourself to help you determine if purchasing the home will be a wise decision. Here’s a look at a few of the things you should check out before you spend the money to bring in a professional.
Structure
While you may not be able to thoroughly analyze the structure of the home, you can get a decent idea of how good of shape the structure is in. For example, you should look to see if the walls appear to be bowed and whether or not the corners are plumb. You can also check the structural integrity of the floor by bouncing in the middle of the floor and seeing if it feels solid.
Electrical
You don’t have to be an electrical expert to look at the main circuit breaker in order to make sure it is at marked as being at least 100 amps. In addition, you should consider the location of all of the electrical receptacles in order to determine if there are enough in place to meet your electrical needs. In other words, a bathroom without any electrical outlets may be problematic if you have an electric shaver or if you plan to use the blow dryer or other devices in the bathroom. Similarly, a living room with only one or two electrical outlets may not be enough to power your entertainment system, your computer, your lamps and any other devices of decorations you might have in your home.
Water
There are two primary areas of concern when it comes to water. First, you want to make certain rainwater is being properly carried away from your house. Second, you want to be sure your water supply is adequate and safe. Ideally, the ground should slope away from your home in order to help carry the water away. Gutters should also be in place with downspouts and drainage pipes that direct the water away from the house rather than toward the basement. When it comes to your water heater and plumbing, on the other hand, keep in mind that gas water heaters are more efficient than electric water heaters and that the water supply pipes that run from the water heater should be copper.
Insulation
Take a look in the attic to get a good idea of the type of insulation that has been installed in the home. In moderate climates, you should see a minimum of R-19 insulation (i.e. 6 inches of fiberglass insulation) installed. In cold climates, on the other hand, up to R-38 (i.e. 12 inches of fiberglass insulation) is required. You should also look beneath receptacle covers located on perimeter walls in order to inspect wall insulation.
While a professional inspector will do all of these things and more, you can get a good idea of the shape of the home by doing these simple inspections on your own. This way, if the home fails your personal inspection, you don’t have to waste money hiring a professional for a home that likely will not pass inspection.
Jim Olenbush is the owner of an Austin real estate brokerage. http://www.jimolenbush.com/ He manages a team of experienced Austin Realtors and they specialize in luxury real estate sales.
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