There are many properties available at a significant discount. For the typical buyer that can tackle cosmetic repairs (paint, carpet, windows, doors, drywall and light remodeling) staying away from properties with structural defects/deficiencies is important.
To help identify structural defects, buyers should have an agent that is familiar with the major systems of a property so that buyer’s don’t waste valuable time and/or money on inspecting a severely defective property.
When considering a property, I educate my buyers on many of the major systems of a home including:
- Foundation (footings, foundation walls, etc.)
- Electrical System (120 Volt, 240 Volt, Service Level)
- Heating & Cooling Systems (Gas, Electric, Hot Water, Steam, Evaporative Cooling, A/C, etc.)
- Plumbing System (cast iron, ABS, PVC, PBE, etc.)
- Roof (shingle, shake, flat, membrane, etc.)
- Drainage
- Walls, Floors, Doors/Windows
Walking through many properties, I educate my buyer’s so that they can quickly identify cosmetic repairs and improvements that are cost effective and help increase property values. When we find a property that fits their needs, we then begin the home buying process which includes a thorough inspection with a competent property inspector.