8 Essential Things to Check Before Buying a New House

The joy of buying a new house and becoming its owner is unparalleled among other achievements in the world. Purchasing a new home depends on various factors such as your budget, neighborhood, location, and so on.

Whether you're choosing a new construction or older property, many things can ruin the joy of buying a new home. However, by conducting some checks and carefully inspecting various areas, you can discover important items needed for your new home.

Here is a list of 8 essential things you should check before buying a new house:

1. Do All Appliances Work

Before buying a new house, make sure all appliances are functioning properly. Just because a stove or refrigerator looks new doesn't mean they're fully functional.

Even if an inspector gave you the green light, it's better to double-check appliances. There is a possibility that new appliances like a microwave oven, refrigerator, clothes dryer, dishwasher, and water heater were recently purchased to attract buyers and are not operating efficiently.

2. Generator

Check if there is a generator in the house. This essential device is useful during long power outages. Check if the generator works. Generators require regular maintenance due to vibrations caused during operation. Also, check that the fuel tank is intact.

Ensure current power is correctly supplied to each distribution panel and there are no breaks in the electrical lines. Generators are necessary if your home is on the outskirts of town.

3. Bring a Charger to Test Outlets

Just like household appliances and the generator, you should also check electrical outlets. To test electric points, it's wise to bring along a phone charger. It’s better to check every outlet in each room. Connecting your mobile device to the charger will tell you if an outlet is working or not.

4. Organized Electrical Panel

The inspector's role and responsibility is to inspect the house and compile a checklist before closing the deal. Remember that inspection doesn't cover everything fully. The electrical panel is one such item. An organized electrical panel with properly labeled connections indicates regular maintenance. A disorganized electrical panel will require servicing soon and poses a potential safety hazard.

5. Check Mixers and Showers in the Bathroom

Replacing faulty mixers and showers in a new home isn't a big issue. But it's better to check that they work. Most people replace working mixers and showers with their own choices when moving into a new home. A thorough inspection of the bathroom can save you problems such as a non-functioning toilet drain or damaged plumbing.

6. Potential Leak Areas

Water intrusion and leaks are very harmful to the structure. If water penetrates your home, it's a serious situation. Pay attention to potential leak areas. Improper drainage systems are the main cause of water penetration and leaks. Water accumulating on the roof causes leaks. Check the condition of roofs, gutters, and other areas – look for signs of water penetration.

7. Definitely Check Basement Walls

The basement is one of the most common problem areas. Basement walls easily absorb moisture, leading to mold and mildew. Regular visits to the basement are necessary for checking damage. An unpleasant smell indicates that moisture has become a serious issue.

The basement is a place for storing items, useful or not depending on their utility. Maintaining the basement walls is necessary to preserve structure. It's better to check the basement walls before closing the deal.

8. Check Sinks

Another area you must check before buying a new house is the sinks in the kitchen and bathroom, as well as beneath them. A quick look at the sinks will help you see if water flows freely. Checking under the sinks can give an idea of possible water leaks, mold, seepage, or other damage caused by a damaged sink. Let the water run for several minutes in the sink to see its condition. Checking the sink gives you a chance to verify that mixers are in good shape.

Knowledge Can Save You

Following some tips, you can get a better offer. These tips will help you find a house that doesn't need immediate repairs. Checking potential danger zones is necessary before buying a new home.

Ensure all items and other appliances are in working order. Don't agree to a deal immediately if you find that at least one of the above conditions isn’t met when buying a new home.