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Home Inspections: Top Ten Problems

Each homebuyer has different ideas of what will constitute the ideal home for them, these notions often based on particular aesthetic preferences. But one thing that unites all potential homebuyers is the desire to find a home that is fundamentally sound—in areas beyond the immediate sweep of the eye—and that will provide a safe, comfortable, and efficient foundation for their life behind a new door.

 

This is where the services of a home inspector come in. During a home inspection, at least 30 areas of the home are placed under the home inspector’s “microscope.” We’ve compiled the ten most common weaknesses uncovered in a typical home inspection. If not addressed, these problems could cost you thousands of dollars in the long-run. So, knowing what to look for, and performing your own thorough pre-inspection, will help you to identify areas for repair or improvement before they grow into costly problems.

1. Damp Basement:

If a mildew odour is present, the inspector will be able to detect it, as this smell is impossible to mask or eliminate. Mildew odour is often the first indication of dampness in the basement. The inspector will also examine the walls, checking for any signs of whitish mineral deposit just above the floor, and will note whether you feel confident enough to store items on the floor.

 

Repairs can run anywhere from $200 to $15, 000, this cost ultimately influencing the calculation of your home’s value, so consider enlisting the help of an expert to ensure you have a firm grasp on the bottom line before moving forward with the sale of your home.

2. Poorly Installed/ Defective Plumbing:

In older homes, plumbing problems and defects are very common. The inspector will determine whether your home’s plumbing is subject to leaking or clogging. Signs of leakage can be visibly detected. The inspector will test water pressure by turning on all the faucets in the highest bathroom and then flushing the toilet. If the sound of water is audible, this indicates that the home’s pipes may be too narrow. The inspector will also check for signs of discolouration in the water when a faucet is first turned on. The appearance of dirty water is usually an indication that the pipes are rusted—a water quality problem that should be dealt with immediately.


3. Older/ Poorly-Functioning Heating and Cooling Systems:

Heating/ cooling systems that are older or haven’t been properly maintained can pose serious safety and health problems. An inspector will determine the age of your furnace and, if it is over the average life span of a furnace (15-20 years), will likely suggest you replace it, even if it is still in good condition.


If your heating system is a forced air gas system, the heat exchanger will be examined very closely, as any cracks can result in the leak of poisonous carbon monoxide gas. These heat exchangers are irreparable; if damaged, they must be replaced. While replacing these components may seem expensive, a new system will yield heightened efficiency, reducing monthly heating/ cooling costs substantially, and benefiting your long-term investment.


4. Older/ Unsafe Electrical System:


In older homes, it is common to find undersized services, aluminum wiring, knob-and-tub wiring, or insufficient/ badly-renovated distribution systems. When an electrical circuit is over-fused, more amperage is drawn on the circuit than what the circuit was intended to bear, creating a fire hazard. You’ll typically find a 15 amp circuit in a home, with increased service for larger appliances such as dryers or stoves. If replacing your fuse panel with a circuit panel, expect a cost of several hundred dollars.


5. Older/ Leaking Roof:

An asphalt roof will last an average of 15 to 20 years. Leaks through the roof could be a sign of physical deterioration of the asphalt shingles caused by aging, or could indicate mechanical damage caused by any number of factors, such as a heavy storm. If you decide your roof requires new shingles, you’ll first need to know how many layers are beneath, in order to determine whether the roof must be completely stripped before installing the new shingles.


6. Minor Structural Problems:

Common in older homes, these problems range from cracked plaster to small shifts in the foundation. While this variety of problem isn’t large enough to cause any real catastrophe, they should be taken care of before they grow.


7. Poor Ventilation:

Unvented bathrooms and cooking areas can become breeding areas for mold and fungus, which, in turn, lead to air quality issues throughout the house, triggering allergic reactions. Mold may additionally cause damage to plaster and window frames. These problems should be identified and taken care of before any permanent damage is caused.


8. Air Leakage:

A cold, drafty home can be the result of any number of problems, such as ill- fitting doors, aged caulking, low-quality weather strips, or poor attic seals. This nature of repair can usually be taken care of easily and inexpensively.


9. Security Features:

An inspector will look at the standard security features that protect your home, such as the types of lock on the doors/ windows/ patio doors, and the smoke or carbon monoxide detectors and where they’re located throughout the home. Check with an expert if your home is lacking in any of these areas, in order to determine what costs to expect.


10. Drainage/ Grading Problems:

This may be the most common problem found by home inspectors, and is a widespread catalyst of damp and mildewed basements. Solutions to this problem may range from the installation of new gutters and downspouts, to re-grading the lawn and surrounding property in order to direct water away from the house.

 

 

 

Speak to Kristy Dusdal about acreage for sale in Abbotsford.  Kristy is one of the experienced Abbotsford realtors.  View Abbotsford real estate listings now to find your dream property.

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Benefits of Using a Realtor to Sell your Home Selling your home is a complex process that can be stressful and time-consuming. An experienced Realtor has the knowledge, skills, and connections to help you through the process every step of the way. Consider the following benefits of working with a Realtor:

 

Professional Experience:

With knowledge and training in marketing strategy, negotiation tactics, and the workings of the current real estate market, a Realtor will be able to guide you through the steps of the home-selling process and be able to explain exactly what to expect. S/he will make you aware of your rights and responsibilities, work with you to strategize the best moves according to your own goals, discuss financing options, and point you in the direction of other specialized professionals who will aid you in different stages of the process.

 

Best Price:

Realtors have their fingers on the pulse of the current real estate market and will know what comparable properties in your area are selling for. They have the resources and knowledge to establish the best asking price and to attract the highest selling price. With access to their company’s professional marketing resources and connections, they will ensure potential buyers are immediately made aware of your home and market the property to sell as quickly as possible and for the most money.

 

“Showcasing” Experience:

Your Realtor will know the importance of a property’s first impression. S/he will have experienced first-hand, for example, the impact a property’s “drive-up appeal” has on the rest of a potential Buyer’s experience of your home. Your Realtor will be able to offer you tips and information on how to get your home in the best selling shape possible, in order to sell your property quickly and for top dollar.

 

Access to Qualified Buyers:

Realtors save time and effort by dealing only with qualified buyers. They have access to a pool of pre-screened and pre-qualified buyers who are serious about buying a home in your neighborhood. Realtors work hard to develop this base of qualified buyers which will become an invaluable resource for you.

 

Negotiation Skills:

Realtors serve many functions, but perhaps the most important is their role as primary negotiator on your behalf. Your Realtor realizes your goal is to sell your home as quickly as possible, and for the most money possible, and will work closely with you during the negotiation process to facilitate this goal. Realtors bring to the process the knowledge and skills to draw up legally binding contracts, to assist in negotiating offers and counteroffers, and to offer counsel and perspective as you work toward your selling goals.

 

To discuss your next home sale in Abbotsford, give me a call at 778-788-2590 or contact me!

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Had enough of skyrocketing housing prices in Metro Vancouver? Longing to live in a beautiful city surrounded by mountains? Look no further than Abbotsford.


Known as the “City in the Country,” Abbotsford offers some of the most picturesque scenery and natural beauty you’ll find anywhere in BC. With its thriving urban centre, affordable housing, and all the big city amenities, it’s easy to see why Abbotsford real estate is a hot commodity these days. Here are some top reasons why families are moving to Abbotsford.


Abbotsford has all the services you can ask for and more


Abbotsford is a fully developed city, with all the comforts and conveniences you and your family could ask for. Pack the kids and head out to the Sevenoaks Mall, or spend the day in the Historic Downtown, visiting a host of specialty boutiques, arts venues, and tea shops.


There’s also a wide variety of delicious food options to sink your teeth into, from fine dining selections of all ethnic varieties to one-of-a-kind restaurants you can only find here. And for all you wine lovers out there, you’ve come to the right place. Abbotsford is home to many local vineyards, offering up some spectacular wine tours you won’t want to miss.   


Not a fan of paying over-the-top airport surcharges in Vancouver?  One of the best things about living in this city is the Abbotsford International Airport. Just think about it. You and your family can hop on a flight without having to fight the traffic or pay the big bucks at the Vancouver International Airport. How’s that for convenience?




Abbotsford is a family-friendly community


Abbotsford was made for families. With 46 public schools, an abundance of green spaces, and a ton of free public events, you’ll wonder why you haven’t snatched up some Abbotsford real estate sooner. Plus, there are a wide variety of outdoor activities the whole family can enjoy, like hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and golf. With so many things to see and do, there’s always something new to experience in Abbotsford.


Whether you’re moving from Vancouver or relocating across the country, life doesn’t get much better than living in Abbotsford.  


Without a doubt, buying a home is one of the most important (and exciting) purchase decisions you’ll probably ever make. It is a great way to build equity, offering you and your family a reliable source of security, as well as many years of joy and unforgettable memories.


Purchasing a home can also be a very intimidating process. So, make sure you have an experienced, trusted agent in your corner to help you with all Abbotsford real estate needs.


To discuss your next home sale or purchase in Abbotsford, give me a call at 778-788-2590.

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