Foreclosure Inspections

Buying a home in foreclosure can be a good deal, IF you know what you are getting into.

The simple issue is that homes go into foreclosure because someone can no longer afford to make the payments on the home. This may also mean that maintenance may have been put off, or projects may not have been completed, or worse yet, the projects were completed "on the cheap." Lack of maintenance can drastically shorten the life of some homes components and incomplete or incorectly done projects can pose a significant safety hazzard.

Similarly, people may choose to remove an item "of value" from the home, possibly substituting an item of lesser value. The substitutions are not always done correctly or safely.

It only takes a few hours to find out for sure what the home needs, or may need in the short term.

PLEASE NOTE:

“Winterized” homes have some items that cannot be inspected without de-winterizing the home, as this may not be possible for the inspection, we are outlining the most common possible issues that may not surface until the house is de-winterized.

  • Plumbing.
    Leaks in traps, fixtures or valves, low water flow, water pressure to high/low. Rust or Sediment in the water. Toilets may not flush properly or may continue to run. Dishwasher could leak.

  • Electrical
    Any electrical device may not function. Any normally tested appliance may not function. (Ceiling fans, bathroom fans, microwaves, Garage door openers…) Garage door openers may not operate safely.  Electrical safety devices (GFCI's, AFCI's) may not operate.  Lights/switches/receptacles may not operate.
  • Appliances.
    Dishwasher may leak, dishwasher may not run. Stove components (oven/burners) may not operate properly.
  • Heating/Cooling. 
    Heating/Cooling system may not operate at all or may need service to operate properly.

This list not meant to be comprehensive nor complete, but only to give you an idea of what can and cannot be inspected and the possible risks.  

  • Drywall cracks, floor squeaks.
    Modern houses are not designed to be much outside the 55-80°F Range. When a house is allowed to swing outside this “normal” range and have abnormal humidity levels, when the house is put back into service it may experience more cracking and squeaking than normal until the house re-acclimatizes.

 

Bob will inspect what he can, and make note of what he cannot inspect and why, but we cannot be held responsible for defects or conditions in systems or components which he could not inspect in operating condition.  Bob suggest that the seller be responsible for de-winterizing the home and addressing any issue that surface during that process. (The first 4 bullets)

Call us and ask what we can do for you in your situation.

(301) 208-8289

or

bob@inspectionsbybob.com

Don’t you wish you knew then what you know now?