When searching for your dream home in Markham, it is easy to get caught up in the number of bedrooms a home has, the upgrades made on a property, and even the sales price. Unfortunately, before many buyers place an offer, they do not spend much time looking at the smaller details of the home, particularly on a house’s exterior.
While a home inspector’s job is to look at many of the following items, you will want to pay close attention before placing an offer to avoid a lot of headache and worry later in the deal.
Here are four things you should always look at on the exterior of a house before you make an offer.
1. The Foundation
Spend a few minutes walking around the exterior of the home and look closely at the foundation. You want to identify any areas that show weakness or that are susceptible to leaks. As you look at the foundation, pay attention to large cracks or damage to the cement. Do not forget the areas behind shrubs, bushes, long grass, etc.
2. Windows
Pay attention to the windows of the home. You will want to look for windows that are outdated, broken, cracked, etc. If you spot any windows that have aluminum or wooden frames, you may want to negotiate a deal with the sellers to have these items replaced.
Also, pay attention to the seals around the windows and look for holes, gaps, bubbles, etc. These are all signs of air leaks. Rotting wood is also a sign of water damage that you will not want to miss.
3. Gutters and Downspouts
Some homeowners do not give enough attention to the gutters and downspouts on their home. However, these items are critical and necessary to keep water away from the foundation of your house. Take a quick look to make sure all gutters are hanging as they should on the roof and that the downspouts send water far away from the home to prevent any issues.
4. Lighting
If you are at a home showing during the day, it is easy to overlook the exterior lighting of a property. However, lighting plays a major role and should not be forgotten. You want to make sure the property is well-lit, as this will not only improve the curb appeal but security as well. Make sure that all exterior light fixtures work, and that there are multiple fixtures around the perimeter of the property.
To avoid overlooking even the smallest detail, work with an experienced real estate agent. Martin MacFarlane is knowledgeable and ready to assist. He can help you through every step of your house hunting experience. Contact him today to begin searching for your dream home!
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