4 Red Flags Buyers Shouldn’t Ignore During a Home Inspection

Consisting of a visual assessment of a home’s structure and systems, a home inspection is a crucial step in the real estate process—particularly for buyers, who will be made aware of any notable problems that may increase their bargaining power against the seller, or even cause them to reconsider the purchase altogether. While not everything revealed during a home inspection is serious, there are certain defects about which buyers should always consult their realtors for guidance. Here are four red flags that buyers shouldn’t ignore:

- A crumbling foundation. A home’s foundation ensures that it is structurally sound, protecting all the fixtures and systems within. If the inspection reveals cracks or other forms of deterioration in the foundation, buyers should be aware that these could be very expensive to fix in the future.

- Mold. Typically stemming from water leaks and/or poor air circulation, mold carries significant health risks and can be difficult to eliminate. While an inspection should reveal the presence of mold if it exists, buyers can also be on alert by looking for musty smells or discoloration around the walls or ceilings.

- Termites. While termites are common—particularly in older homes—they can cause major damage to a home’s structure over time. If the inspection shows signs of termites, a specialist will likely need to be called in to quell the infestation and prevent further damage.

- Electrical problems. If a home’s wiring or circuits are outdated or were improperly installed, they may create fire hazards and other problems.

Source: magazine.realtor