Buying a home is the most expensive purchase most people will make, so you want to know exactly what you are getting into before buying. Testing several crucial areas in the home will give you the peace of mind to know the home is in good shape. If the homeowner or Realtor won’t let you do these six tests, then that is a good sign to look for a different home.
Check Pipes for Leaks
Leaky pipes are one of the hardest and most expensive repairs to a home. The best way to check for leaks is to go around the entire house and turn on each faucet. Walking around the housing and checking the outside pipes is also recommended.
Check AC/Heat
You don’t want to move into your new home only to find out that the air conditioner or heat are not working. You might also want to take a closer look at the filters associated with the HVAC system. If the furnace is looking a little worn, you can express these concerns before committing and use it as leverage to get the price you want for your new home. It will only take a few minutes to turn on the heat and AC during an open house.
Flush Toilets
Take the time to flush every toilet in the home to make sure they are in working condition. Listen for any noises and check for any leaks around the bowl. It is also wise to put some toilet paper in the toilet before flushing to make sure it can handle daily use. Making this check is extremely easy and can save you a headache if you are caught unaware.
Open Windows
Replacing windows is another major home improvement expense that a new homeowner does not want to incur. Windows can easily become stuck or hard to open as they age, and you do not want to find out this information when trying to air out your new home on a beautiful day.
Check Water Pressure in Shower
Everyone has their own preference for water pressure in the shower. While the shower could have work perfectly fine for the old owners, there is no way to know if it will fulfill your needs without trying it out first.
Check for Basement or Attic Moisture
A good home inspector should be able to spot any moisture in the basement, but it is always wise to check for yourself. If the basement has any moisture, then you are going to be in store for a huge expense in a few years.
If you are going to spend your life savings on a new home, then it only makes sense to guarantee you are making a good purchase. For any fixes that you feel might be in order, you can always contact a professional for a fast solution to those problems. If the current home owner has nothing to hide, then they will welcome these tests. After you are done testing the home, you will be able to buy your dream home without any worries.
Meghan Belnap
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She also enjoys being in the outdoors and exploring new opportunities whenever they arise as well as researching new topics to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. Meghan recommends using a professional plumber, like those at Hillcrest Plumbing & Heating, to help out with any complicated tests that need to be done after purchasing a home.