During the home hunt, it’s all too easy to fall in love with a house or condo based solely on its appearance. Unfortunately, hidden issues can sometimes lurk just beneath the surface. That’s why it pays to do your due diligence.
Of course, there’s only so much you can check for on your own (that’s what a great inspector is for). That said, being aware of some of the most commonly-found home issues can help ensure that you make a more informed decision after touring a living space.
If you’re in the process of looking at homes, here are a few little things you’ll want to keep an eye out for.
1) Water Pressure
During viewings, home hunters should always remember to do a water-pressure check. You’ll want to turn each shower and sink on and then off. Let the faucets run for several seconds. If you’ve ever stood freezing cold under a slow trickle or waited to rinse the soap off after washing your hands, you know why adequate water pressure matters so much.
In addition, low pressure could be a sign of worse things than taking too long in the shower. It may also mean that there’s an issue with a home’s water mainline or heater. While you’re checking the pressure, be sure to also ensure that the water always drains quickly and efficiently. Don’t forget to make sure that all of the toilets flush properly. A steep bill from a plumber is not likely the type of house-warming gift you want.
What are the secrets to finding and buying West Toronto real estate? The posts below will help set you up for success:
- 5 Questions to Ask About a Home Before Making an Offer
- Could a Cosmetically Imperfect Home Be the Best Choice in Toronto?
- Buying an Older Home In Toronto’s West End
2) Kitchen Cabinets
When you’re in a home’s kitchen, try opening all of the cabinets and taking a look inside. Is the craftsmanship of good quality? It’s easy enough to refinish a set of cabinets, but knowing whether they’re well put together can help you determine whether they’ll likely need to be replaced sometime in the near future.
Kitchen repairs can be expensive, so it’s good to be aware of any red flags. Make sure that all shelves are level, and that the hinges are attached snugly to the wood (look out for poorer-quality construction methods, such as pins and staples).
3) Light Switches And Plug Sockets
Safety is key when buying an older home, and you’ll want to make sure the electricity is up to your standards. Plus, are you certain that all of the light switches and plug sockets work? Test them out by turning all of the lights on and off.
Too few outlets could also be an issue in homes that were built before laptops and cellphones became prevalent. As you walk around, take note of the number of outlets you see (and whether they’re conveniently located). You might also want to bring your phone charger to test them out.
4) The Roof
When you’re thinking of buying a home, be sure to ask the owner how old the roof is and when it was last repaired. Roof replacements are prohibitively expensive, and not nearly as rewarding as remodelling the kitchen. In some cases, a serious flaw can be a dealbreaker–unless you’re getting the house at a fantastic price.
Examining the roof from the ground below can give you some clues about its condition. Do you see any cracked, broken, or buckling shingles? What about mold, moss, or discolouration? These issues may be purely cosmetic, or they could be a sign of serious decay.
Your inspector can do a more thorough job than you can, but being aware of some of the most common problems with a roof can help ensure that you ask the right questions—and start considering whether to factor repairs into your deal.
Are you searching for a family friendly neighbourhood in Toronto’s West End? The posts below can help:
- Best Neighbourhoods In Toronto For Young Families
- Why Do Families Love Rockcliffe-Smythe?
- Why The Junction is Perfect For Families
5) The Attic
Home hunters often overlook attics. It makes sense, since it’s not like you’re going to be entertaining or spending much time in this space. Unfortunately, when an attic is not well maintained, major issues can pop up down the line.
An attic should be well insulated, adequately ventilated, and free from dampness as you want to avoid mold at all costs.. If you venture up to the top level and find that it’s really cold, it’s often a warning sign. There could be poor insulation, causing your house to be frigid in the winter and sweltering in the summer. Just think about what that might mean for your energy bills!
While you’re there, check that all vents are clean and unobstructed. Last but certainly not least, keep an eye out for signs of water damage—especially rot and mold.
There’s a lot that can go wrong with a home if you’re not careful. While you may not be a professional inspector, knowing some of the major warning signs of potential defects can help you make a smarter, more-empowered purchase.
Wondering what else to look for in a home? Get in touch at info@sidorovainwood.com or call 416-769-3437 to learn how to make a worry-free purchase.
