Whether you're looking for a Minneapolis home to buy to replace your old Brampton real estate or you're selling your Minneapolis real estate in preparation for moving away, there are certain things that can kill a deal. For buyers, it's important to look out for these things to make sure you're getting the property you expect. For sellers, it's imperative that you recognize and correct these problems before they ruin your chances with the buyer. Here are some common red flags raised during home inspections.
Environmental/ Health Hazards
Some major no nos whether this is a home for sale in Toronto or here in Minneapolis are lead paint and asbestos. This tends to affect older homes that were built before legislation banning these products in residential homes and if left unfixed can cause serious health issues. Radon is another thing to watch out for: it's a colorless, odorless gas that is linked to cancer. It tends to seep into the house through the basement so be sure to have it tested.
Infestations
Remember how turned off you were by that piece of Middlesex, Ontario real estate you viewed when you noticed that cockroach under the baseboard? The same thing can happen to your buyers if your house has a pest problem. Common pests include mice, termites, cockroaches, carpenter ants, or even squirrels. Tell tale signs of a problem include scratching sounds in the walls, wood damage, and evidence of traps.
Cracks and Wiring
Cracks in walls, support beams, or basement foundations can indicate that the house has shifted or settled and is therefore structurally unsound. Obviously this is less of a problem with high rise Toronto condominiums where the support structure is buried deep within the building, but cracks in pipes and air exchange systems can still be a problem here. Wiring should always be inspected for composition, competency, and load bearing.
Moisture
The tell tale signs of moisture where it shouldn't be are a musty smell, foggy windows, or little black spots on the ceilings or walls indicating mold or mildew formation. Make sure you and your Royal Lepage Oshawa realtor keep a keen eye out for excess air fresheners, localized fresh paint, or areas of the house the seller doesn't want you to see. These are usually indications that the seller is trying to hide a problem. It could come from poor air circulation, or worse: a leaky roof or basement.
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