NOVA Homes Blog: Inspection Red Flags in Northern Virginia Real Estate

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Inspection Red Flags in Northern Virginia Real Estate

Just before you purchase a home in Northern Virginia, you have the opportunity to go through with a home inspection— this is your chance to make sure the home has no serious flaws before you take over the property.

The inspection includes checks on the home's structural and mechanical condition, testing the foundation for instance. The home inspection also keeps an eye out for things like termites, gas leaks and roofing damage. Ahead of time, these are all great things to learn before you purchase Northern Virginia real estate, but how do you know which are deal breakers?

The following are red flags to watch for during your home inspection:

Termites and Other Creatures

While you may have a pet, you do not want a host of other creatures living inside your home's walls. If the inspection detects termites, the sooner you take care of them the better. Also watch for insects like beetles or rodents. Deal with these issues as quick as you can and then have a pest control expert advise you on the best ways to keep them out for good.

Drainage Problems

Nothing is worse than water pooling into areas of your home in Fairfax County, Arlington County or Alexandria City. The inspection will check for drainage problems that could lead to mold, wood rot and foundation issues. They can usually be amended by replacing gutters and downspouts, but can also require correcting the grading at ground level. Nonetheless, these are much less costly than fixing damage caused by moisture.

Worn Roofing

Certainly replacing your home's roof is not the first order of business when you move into a new place. The age and type of roofing material will be factored into the inspection, but know what you're willing to deal with in terms of repairs versus complete replacement.

Old Wiring

Inspectors will take a look at the electrical panel in your home, checking for overloaded circuits and fire hazards associated with certain wiring.

As your local Northern Virginia real estate expert, I'm here to walk you through every step. I have nearly 3 decades of experience in the industry and have a passion for helping you make the most of your investment.

I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna.

Earle Whitmore

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
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Northern Virginia is a thriving area consisting of several communities that thrive with historical and cultural richness as well as physical beauty.
With all that the Northern Virginia area offers, there’s never a shortage of things to do, natural beauty and great schools. From the ocean to the mountains to the nation’s capital, this is a part of the country that has it all!
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