Things to Look for When Touring a Home

When touring a home, there can be many things running through a home buyer's mind. They may be thinking about where they would put their furniture, how the natural light comes in, or if there's enough storage space. However, there are some essential things buyers should look for when touring a home that could impact their decision to make an offer. Here are some key items to keep an eye out for:

Roof Age

The age of a home's roof is a crucial element to take into account. A roof that's nearing the end of its lifespan can be a significant expense for a buyer. Replacing a roof can cost thousands of dollars, which could impact a buyer's budget. Inspecting a roof can be a challenge if you're not a professional, but some signs to look for include missing or curled shingles, water stains on the ceiling, or sunlight coming through the roof boards.

Electrical Panel Brand

The electrical panel is the central location that controls the electricity in a home. The brand of the panel is imperative because some brands are outdated and can be a fire hazard. If the electrical panel is an older model, it could mean that the home's electrical system needs to be updated, which could impact a buyer's budget. 

Below is a list of the more common outdated and unsafe electrical panels. It is very difficult to get home insurance if the home has one of these panels.

1. Federal Pacific
2. Zinsco
3. Sylvania
4. Challenger

Type of Plumbing

Another thing to look for is the type of plumbing supply pipes in the home. If the home was built after the mid-1990s, it likely has Copper, CPVC, or PEX plumbing. All of these are good choices. If your home was built before the mid-1990s, your plumbing pipes might be made of risky materials from prior eras such as; galvanized steel, polybutylene, or aging copper. These not-so-great pipes are more prone to leaks and potential water damage to the home.

The best places to look in order to verify the type of plumbing in the home are where pipes come out of the walls at the water heater, under sinks, and behind toilets.

 Buyers should look for signs of water damage, such as stains or mold, around sinks, toilets, and the water heater.

HVAC System and Water Heater Age

The HVAC system is responsible for heating and cooling a home. If the HVAC system is outdated, it could lead to higher utility bills, uneven heating and cooling, or even a complete system breakdown. The age of the HVAC system is an essential factor to take into account when making an offer on a home. Additionally, the age of the water heater is a crucial element to look for during a home tour. Water heaters typically last between eight and twelve years, so if the water heater is older, it may need to be replaced soon.

Water Damage and Mold

Water damage and mold are two significant issues that buyers should look for during a home tour. Water damage can be caused by leaks in the roof, plumbing, or HVAC system. If water damage is left untreated, it can lead to mold growth, which can be hazardous to a person's health. Signs of mold include a musty smell, discolored walls or ceilings, or visible mold growth.

In conclusion, when touring a home, buyers should keep an eye out for specific elements that could impact their decision to make an offer. These include the age of the roof, the brand of the electrical panel, the type of plumbing, the age of the HVAC system and water heater, and signs of water damage and mold. Taking these factors into account can help home buyers make an informed decision when choosing their next home.