Importance of home inspection

A home inspection is important whether the house you are buying is for your family or for an investment property. An inspection performed by an experienced inspector can highlight problems that may make a great deal into a not-so-great deal. A lot of homes, especially foreclosures, are being sold in as-is condition, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't have an inspection done anyway. The seller will not make any repairs, but the home's price may be renegotiated or you may realize that the repairs are not in your budget. Either way, knowledge is power. There are several areas you should check yourself or ask your inspector to check for you. For more information on inspections, check out this article.

Primary system shutoffs are an important safety component for any house. Water, natural gas or propane, and electrical shutoffs should all be easily located by either you or your inspector. If there seems to be a problem with shutoffs that are owned or maintained by a utility, that utility should be contacted for repair as soon as the house is purchased to protect the investment.

The inspector should be willing and able to climb the roof for an inspection. He or she should inspect both the condition of the shingles and any outlets on the roof. The insurance company will inspect the roof anyway after purchase, and any repairs or replacements will need to be made before insurance will be underwritten. Knowing of any possible problems ahead of time will allow you to be prepared for needed repairs.

If the home is in poor condition and needs renovation including drywall, ceiling, or flooring replacements, you should check the underlying condition of the walls and floors. Stains and damage to the carpet can seep through to the underlying pad and sometimes the subfloor, leading to more intensive repairs to remove any lingering odor or potential problems. If there is a drop ceiling, you should remove tiles in several places to examine what is hiding underneath.

Provident Property Management is committed to helping you get your investment properties rented. We will work with you to improve your property in any way necessary to secure quality long-term tenants. Please contact us for more information on how we can help you with your investment properties.