What things should I check when buying a house? We had a friend move into a new house and their water pressure was so low that it took a 30 minutes to fill the upstairs bathroom. They got it fixed, but I'm wondering if there's things that we should check before we buy a house. Thanks
Asked By James | Morrison, CO | 418 views | Buying | 1 year ago
1. Roof: Check for loose, missing or damaged shingles, signs of water damage, and any damaged flashing.
2. Foundation and Structure: Make sure the foundation is level, the walls are plumb, and that doors and windows work without sticking.
3. Electrical System: Check the age of the wiring and the circuit breaker box.
4. Plumbing System: Check for any current or past plumbing issues, such as old galvanized steel pipes, backup systems or foundation cracks.
5. HVAC System: Check for proper maintenance, age and energy efficiency rating.
6. Appliances: Make sure all of the appliances, such as the dishwasher, fridge and oven, are in working order and are up to date.
7. Exterior Issues: Look for evidence of termites or mildew, peeling paint, cracked or crumbling stucco, or any other exterior damage.
8. Local Community: Do some research into the local schools, safety, and other amenities nearby before purchasing a house.
Most buyers and sellers work with licensed Realtors when entering the real estate market. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 89% of buyers used an agent or broker during the purchase process in 2024. Real estate agents guide buyers through each purchase step, from securing pre-approval from lenders to attending the closing ap