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Quality in a home is dependent on many things, such as how well it is built, the longevity of materials, and even the sustainability of the property. However, you can see a home you want through rose-tinted lenses, so there are some things to consider before making an offer. From checking for well-maintained gutters to the drainage of the house, here are some suggestions.
A Solid Structure and Foundation
The foundational health of a house is pretty critical since it determines its future. A cracked foundation will lead to hazards like sinking and bowing. This will be noticeable if the issue is bad enough and can even happen in new homes. However, quality new builds by reputable firms won’t have these problems. To be sure, keep an eye out for horizontal and diagonal cracks that are larger than ¼ inches, and check for chipped bricks outside and uneven interior walls.
The foundational health of a house is pretty critical since it determines its future. A cracked foundation will lead to hazards like sinking and bowing. This will be noticeable if the issue is bad enough and can even happen in new homes. However, quality new builds by reputable firms won’t have these problems. To be sure, keep an eye out for horizontal and diagonal cracks that are larger than ¼ inches, and check for chipped bricks outside and uneven interior walls.
Well-Maintained Gutters
The gutters of a property often go unnoticed until there is a problem. However, they are among the most critical elements of a house when it comes to maintenance and property safety. Gutters divert water away from the home to ensure rain and other moisture don’t affect it. A gutter that is cracked or blocked will back up with water, which can seep into the house and cause dampness and mold, as well as leak water into electrical wiring if it is bad enough.
The gutters of a property often go unnoticed until there is a problem. However, they are among the most critical elements of a house when it comes to maintenance and property safety. Gutters divert water away from the home to ensure rain and other moisture don’t affect it. A gutter that is cracked or blocked will back up with water, which can seep into the house and cause dampness and mold, as well as leak water into electrical wiring if it is bad enough.
Spotting Quality in a Home with Finishes
A survey in the UK found that 77% of homebuyers find problems with their home just after settling in. There are some house features that you really should look out for that can be a dead giveaway when a property has been neglected. While energy-efficient windows make homes more comfortable all year round, they must be modern uPVC-framed, with double or triple-glazed glass. Any vinyl siding or rendering should also be flat, clean, and free from cracks.
Drainage and the Surroundings
Like the gutters, a drainage system is critical for diverting water away from the house. Rainwater runoff should be sent through a sloped system where it ends up being washed away into a sewer system or drainage area. Landscaping is used to ensure this happens. Water pooling is a dead giveaway that something is wrong. Additionally, any trees close to the house could be a problem later on as roots continue to grow, causing issues with plumbing and foundations.
Like the gutters, a drainage system is critical for diverting water away from the house. Rainwater runoff should be sent through a sloped system where it ends up being washed away into a sewer system or drainage area. Landscaping is used to ensure this happens. Water pooling is a dead giveaway that something is wrong. Additionally, any trees close to the house could be a problem later on as roots continue to grow, causing issues with plumbing and foundations.
Some Hidden Features
There are also some hidden key features that you must check when viewing a home for sale. Some are not as apparent and might even escape your mind, but they are no less critical than those mentioned above. For example, the condition of the HVAC system (indoor and out) can signal if it has been well-maintained. If there is a chimney, then it should be straight and look solid. And as you look around, be sure to keep an eye on the general condition of the house.
There are also some hidden key features that you must check when viewing a home for sale. Some are not as apparent and might even escape your mind, but they are no less critical than those mentioned above. For example, the condition of the HVAC system (indoor and out) can signal if it has been well-maintained. If there is a chimney, then it should be straight and look solid. And as you look around, be sure to keep an eye on the general condition of the house.
Summary
Don’t forget to look for problems with the foundation and structure when spotting quality in a home for sale. The finishes, such as windows, can be an indicator of how well maintained the home is, and there are some features most people overlook, like the quality of the HVAC.
Don’t forget to look for problems with the foundation and structure when spotting quality in a home for sale. The finishes, such as windows, can be an indicator of how well maintained the home is, and there are some features most people overlook, like the quality of the HVAC.
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