Looking to buy a luxury home in Boston? Don’t skip a home inspection. This step in the home-buying process is crucial in identifying issues that may not be apparent from a home viewing. An inspection can save you from making a critical mistake when house hunting but also ensure you go into negotiations fully armed with what you need to know to get the best outcome in your homebuying venture.
WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?
Home inspections are performed to ensure the quality and safety of a dwelling. Licensed inspectors examine and report material defects to the future homeowner, noting any potential risks and necessary repairs. During a thorough home inspection, buyers can gain insight into a home’s condition, including issues like mold infestations or faulty electrical systems.
6 TYPES OF LUXURY HOME INSPECTIONS
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Roof inspection
Roofs can sometimes be damaged by moss, mold, rotting wood, or damaged shingles. Leaving these problems unchecked can lead to expensive roof replacements or professional roof cleanings.
Look out for:
- Missing shingles
- Exposed nail heads
- Water leakage in your home or attic
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Electrical inspection
A frayed or exposed electrical wire can cause malfunctions, appliance damage, or fires due to sparks. Performing an electrical inspection ensures that your electrical systems are safe and functional.
Look out for:
- Wires humming or buzzing
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Burning smells from an outlet or fuse box
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Crawl space inspection
Leaving a crawl space unattended might result in poor indoor air quality and higher utility bills. Wood rots in a humid crawl area, which can cause structural issues with a property. Often, the damage is not visible to the naked eye, which is why a professional should examine it.
Look out for:
- High indoor humidity
- Movement sounds of animals
- Foundation cracks
- Uneven ground
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HVAC inspection
A defective HVAC system may cause inconsistent temperatures, carbon monoxide exposure, and in some cases will require an entire replacement. This is a particular aspect of a home that needs checking as it could lead to very expensive costs on a buyer’s part if unidentified before the sale.
Look out for:
- Inaccurate thermostat readings
- Noise coming from the HVAC system
- Inconsistent temperatures throughout the home
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Septic system inspection
Septic tanks are required for the disposal of toilet water, washers, sinks, and showers. The inspection process examines whether the system is working well, has cracks, or requires pumping.
Watch out for:
- Yard puddles
- Greener grass patches over the septic area
- The last time the tank was inspected, it should be no more than 3 years
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Pool and spa inspection
Some luxury homes in Boston have swimming pools or spas that require regular maintenance. Inspections check swimming pools for leaks, proper functioning of pool lights, and the presence of mold.
Look out for:
- Concrete or plaster cracks
- Wear and rust on the ladder or diving board
- Visible algae
- Burned-out underwater lights
This is just the start of an inspection list. Plumbing, foundation, mold, asbestos, radon, and pest inspections are also required to ensure that the home of your dreams will not turn into a nightmare. If you want to learn more about home inspections or hire a professional, Realtor Seydyss Barreto can connect you with a reputable home inspector. Call 978.590.8918 or leave a message here.