When you’re searching for your next home, it can seem like there are a million important things to check in order to make sure that your new home is safe, clean, and meets your needs. There are so many things to consider when looking for the perfect place – the size of the bedroom and living space, whether or not there is a washer and dryer in the house, whether or not pets are allowed, and what appliances come with the unit… The list goes on. But as any experienced homeowner will tell you, some of the most important details about a house won’t be found on any listing. Instead, they’re something that you need to personally inspect during your walk-through with the landlord or real estate agent.
Basement
Houses that have below-ground-level dwellings may have a basement. When inspecting a unit, you’ll want to check the condition of the basement. Basements are notorious for flooding, and you’ll definitely want to make sure that this problem has been resolved. You should also look around to make sure that there are no signs of rodent or insect infestation. And if you notice signs of mold or mildew, you’ll definitely want to inquire about the cause of the moisture. You don’t want to be breathing in those spores all day long! If the basement has been sealed off from the rest of the building, it’s usually safe enough to store your furniture there. However, if it’s not been properly sealed, you may want to look for a home that doesn’t have a basement.
The exterior of the building
When looking at the exterior of the building, you’re mainly concerned with two things – what shape the structure is in, and how close it is to other buildings. First, you’ll want to check for signs of neglect, like mold, rust, or rotting wood. You’ll also want to check to make sure that the gutters are clean and that the roof isn’t leaking. You’ll also want to keep an eye on your surroundings. If the building is located on a busy road or near an airport, you’ll likely hear a lot of noise, and you may risk exposure to pollutants. If the building is too close to other buildings, you may notice that lights and noise are coming through the walls.
Windows and lighting
You’ll want to check the windows to make sure they’re not painted shut or blocked by a lot of dust. You’ll also want to look for rotting wood and broken panes. If the windows are painted shut, it’s a sign that the landlord hasn’t been taking care of the property. The lighting in the house will also be a good indicator of how well it’s been maintained. If the fixtures are dusty, it’s a sign that they’re not getting cleaned regularly. If light bulbs are missing, that’s another indication that the landlord isn’t taking care of the place.
Bathrooms and kitchen
The kitchen and bathroom are two places where you’ll want to check for signs of neglect. If the kitchen cabinets need to be repainted, they’re likely not regularly being cleaned. The same is true for the bathroom if the paint is chipped or peeling. You’ll also want to check for signs of damage and wear. If tile grout is missing, it’s been damaged. If the flooring is worn, it’s been damaged. If the cabinets are warped or the sink is rusting, it’s been damaged. If the toilet seat is loose, it’s been damaged. If the appliances are old, they’re likely in need of repair, and they’re definitely not worth the extra money.
Conclusion
As you can tell, there’s a lot to look for when you’re inspecting a new house. You may think it’s a big task, but it’s worth it – these are the things that will make a difference in your day-to-day life. And they’re the things that a landlord or real estate agent isn’t really paying attention to. So while they might not think it’s important, it’s up to you to make sure the place is safe and up to code!
