Many times the unique fixer-upper is a great way to go. If you want to know what is available in your area click HERE. Fixer-uppers offer the opportunity for the buyer to pay less upfront and then remodel it the way they want and then sell it for a profit or keep it as there home. There can be hidden dangers that can throw you into a money pit. Don't let this happen to you. Here are five things to watch out for to protect yourself when buying a fixer-upper.
Watch out for:
- Structural Issues - It is important that the house has sound structural integrity. A sagging roof or uneven floors would be a sign of structural problems which will be expensive and costly to fix. Make sure the electrical box is not messy which could indicate a problem with the wiring. It is also important that the home be properly ventilated. Poorly ventilated homes can make residents ill and will be costly to remedy. To contact a real estate professional click HERE.
- Lead Paint - Homes built before 1978 could contain lead paint which can be a health hazard if it chips, flakes off or is chalky, most of which will happen during a remodel. By law, sellers are only required to disclose the presence of lead paint if it was specifically tested for which the law doesn't require. Be sure to request testing as a stipulation of the sale.
- Asbestos - If you are interested in a house built prior to 1981, it is a good idea to request asbestos testing as a contingency of the sale. Asbestos is a cancer-causing substance that is commonly found in older popcorn ceilings, vinyl tiles, appliance components and insulation. Sometimes even when a popcorn ceiling has been scraped there could be left behind asbestos dust in the vents, be careful.
- Mold - A musty smell can be an indicator of mold. Be on the look out for any evidence of water damage which is a precursor to mold. Telltale sales include wall stains and swollen baseboards but also check for signs that damage has been covered up such as flooring or walls that don't match the rest of the room. Be sure to be especially attentive to basements, crawl spaces and around water fixtures in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Planning Requirements - Verify any safety standards or building codes before you buy the house. For example, the water department might not allow you to add a bathroom or adding square footage could mean more requirements to meet safe to codes that exceed your budget.
For more questions or comments contact:
Sherri Melton - Realtor
2013 KW Quadruple Gold Sales Award-Over 11 Million in Sales in 2013
Associate Leadership Council Member 2007 - 2014
Accredited Staging Professional - IAHSP Member
Keller Williams Realty Augusta Partners
3633 Wheeler Rd., Suite 125
Augusta, GA 30909
Cell/Text 706.495.1135
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