LET YOUR AGENT DO THEIR J O THEIR JOB
Don’t go viewing on your own. There’s a security factor in traveling to unoccupied houses alone. Additionally, there are other ways this makes you vulnerable. A seller’s agent might think you’re unrepresented and attempt to take advantage of you. Let your real estate agent do their job. If you come across a property that interests you, but your agent hasn’t told you about it, it might not meet all your criteria. If you think you want to view it, give your agent the address. Your agent can then arrange a showing for you.
THE CONDITION OF THE PROPERTY
In assessing a home for potential purchase, there are important items to be on the lookout for, the primary one being the condition of the property. You will want to hire professional inspectors, but you can do an initial review of the house. Is the home structurally sound? Walk around the interior of the home, checking the walls and ceilings for cracks. Hairline cracks are to be expected in some places. Check the exterior for cracks. Cracks could be a sign that the property isn’t structurally sound. Points at which extensions join are places to look, as cracks often occur there. Also look for loose or broken shingles on the roof or broken guttering, evidence of damage to the drywall and weaknesses on the floors. It’s acceptable to ask how long it’s been like that, and whether it will be fixed. If you see major cracks or bowing walls, have a structural engineer assess the situation. Look (and smell) closely for evidence of mold. Mold and mold damage are major problems that can lead to major repairs. Don’t just look for mold, use your nose as well. Mold frequently gives
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