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. 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 tiles 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. On the other hand, be forgiving for those small imperfections that are signs a house has been lived in. Pin-holes in the walls from hanging pictures mean the seller just didn't take the time to patch, paint, and prepare the house for selling. It's an easy fix for you, and not weighty enough to change the value of the house during a walk through. And a small tear in a carpet that you would want to rip out anyway? Focus on the flooring condition and carpet overall, not the small tear. Look (and smell) closely for evidence of mold. Mold and mold damage are major problems that will cost you a lot to clean and repair. Don’t just look for it — use your nose as well. Mold frequently gives off a musty smell, even when there are no visible signs. Inspect all crawl spaces, basements area, and walls. Plaster that’s flaking, watermarks on walls or ceilings, or even a fresh coat of paint in part of a room could be indications of mold. Don’t overlook the ceiling and around the skirting boards properly for evidence of leaks or water damage.
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