If you’ve ever bought or sold a house, you know how nerve wracking the home inspection process can be. Just when you think you’re closer to owning (or selling) a home, the deal can grind to a screeching halt!  But while every home has some issues that need attention, they don’t have to put an end to an otherwise solid real estate transaction.

If you’re the seller, having an inspection prior to listing your home allows ample time to correct any problems before they even have a chance to scare potential buyers away. As the buyer, take some time to educate yourself on the most common home inspection findings.  That will put you in a better position to negotiate the repairs or purchase price while helping you determine where the squeaky wheels are that require priority attention.

Here are 5 of the most common home inspection issues to investigate as the buyer or seller:

• Signs of Moisture. While not necessarily a deal breaker, any wet, rotted, moldy, or musty areas in the home could indicate a number of problems such as poor ventilation, grading or drainage issues, roof and/or chimney problems, and more.
• Structural Problems. Most common in older homes, damage to foundation walls, and damaged or improperly installed floor joists and roof rafters, among other issues, could pose structural and safety concerns if not remedied.
• Faulty or Undersized Electrical Systems. Outdated and overloaded systems, as well as dangerous wiring connections pose a fire hazard and most often need immediate attention.
• Deficient Heating System. Broken controls, unsafe exhaust flues, cracked heat exchangers, and blocked chimneys not only represent inefficient heating but are also major health and safety concerns.
• Poor Maintenance. Cracked or peeling painted surfaces, crumbling masonry, careless wiring or plumbing, and broken fixtures and appliances often reflect the overall lack of care that a home has received over the years.

If you’re the buyer and notice a home security alarm system, be sure to ask if the system is active, when it was installed, and who’s monitoring it.  Burglars are very aware of real estate transactions so you want to be sure the system is up-to-date and monitored by a reputable firm.  And if the home you’re interested in buying doesn’t already have a modern security alarm system?  Contact Now Security to arrange to have one installed even before move-in day – you’ll enjoy the added peace of mind and appreciate our extreme focus on helping to safeguard your home and family.