September
7
September 7th, 2011
by
admin
Most homes, both new and old, have a few problem areas. However, according to Michael Litzner, Broker of Century 21 American Homes, there are frequent flaws that every buyer and seller should check for before making an offer or putting a home on the market.
Wood
Rotted wood is one of the most frequently occurring maintenance issues, says Litzner. The flooring and walls in places like kitchens and bathrooms are often exposed to moisture, and over time this can lead to rot. Buyers should also check basements and garages for rot, as well as the exterior of a house including any decks, overhangs or eaves, Litzner suggests.
Water and Drainage
Water damage is one of the most expensive problems a homeowner can be faced with, Litzner states. Water intrusion in basements and garages can create a rotting foundation, which is pricey to repair, and mold, which is difficult to get rid of. "Be sure the foundation of your home is properly graded for maximum drainage, and check that the gutters are in working order," Litzner suggests.
Roof
The roof is your home's strongest shield against the elements. Maintaining your roof by replacing shingles and patching any leaks can extend the life of your roof, but it is a good idea to have it inspected every five years, and replaced every 20 years. "Keeping your roof in top shape can help you avoid some pretty big disasters, including major leaks and even a total collapse. If you find yourself patching and re-patching sections of your roof annually, it might be time to replace it completely," Litzner says.
Making sure you check for and repair these common home defects before placing your home on the market can decrease complications in selling, and improve the results of your home inspection report, notes Litzner . If you're buying a new home, paying special attention to these problem areas can help ease the likelihood of future repairs and give you valuable points of negotiation.
For more information on common home defects, please contact Century 21 American Homes at propertyinfo@C21AmHomes.com, 1-800-270-6318 or Century 21 American Homes.
Century 21 American Homes is one of the fastest growing real estate brokerages serving Long Island, Queens and Brooklyn. To find out more about an exciting career in real estate contact us at careers@c21amhomes.com.
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Tags: Common Home Defects, What to look for when buying a home