When purchasing a new property, there is always some amount of risk. In a competitive market, you may not have a lot of time to make a decision and if you do not see the property first, you could open yourself up to problems later.
If you want to mitigate the risk, the U.S. News suggests you have a professional inspection. When you receive the inspection report, there are a few red flags to look for.
Cracks in the foundation
Cracks in the foundation can mean nothing. Small cracks do not generally compromise the structural integrity of the building. Piling issues, for example, can cause structural damage and make the property unsafe. Likewise, if the property has drainage issues, the water damage can affect the foundation and lead to dangerous results.
Electrical issues
Electrical systems in older houses do not stand up to today’s standards. Inspectors will look at older systems and determine if they can handle newer appliances or technology. A faulty electrical system can lead to fire or electrocution. In some cases, rewiring may be worth the cost of the property.
Termites and pests
Pests do not necessarily mean that purchasing the property is a bad idea. It depends on the type of pest and the extent of the damage. For example, termites often infest older homes. While you can exterminate termites with little to no damage, they can also devastate the structural system. An inspector can look into the structure’s skeleton to tell you the extent of the damage.
Even when purchasing new construction, you should always have an inspector.
