Pre-sale Inspection Guide:

Purchasing or flipping a home is one of the biggest investments that a person can make. With any purchase a buyer can experience buyer's remorse. Pre-sale inspections can reduce the number of surprises a buyer can run into and reduce buyer's remorse. Pre-sale is the best time for you to be familiar with any potential problems or future costs that may come down the road. A lot of people are blinded by the little details but it's the big details that can end up costing the most. The structure of the house is what you need to pay attention to like the roof, plumbing and electrical. So, here's a list of important details that need attention during the pre-sale.

Roof: before stepping into home it is crucial to look at the roof. Is it caving in, does it look old, or are there any holes. A new roof is going to be a major investment and is something that needs to be considered. If you are living in the home a new roof could mean a lower homeowner's insurance, but if you are flipping this home it's just another expense for you.

Walls: the condition of the paint on the walls is something that needs attention whether you are moving into the home or flipping the home. However, it is crucial not to be distracted by a fresh paint job. Sometimes a new paint job can be used to distract you from the structural damages on the walls which can represent much more costs than painting. Paint can also be used to cover up mildew, mold and cigarette staining.

Temperature: this is a problem that will be more present in older homes. Heating and cooling systems can be very expensive to fix or repair. Older systems are not as efficient as newer systems and could lead to high utility costs. If you are flipping or buying this home it is important to weigh the costs or replacing or repairing the existing unit.

Plumbing: checking that all the plumbing works is important in the cost aspect but checking underneath the plumbing is even more important. Don't be afraid to get underneath the plumbing to check for leaks, water damage and mold. Mold looks and smells bad but can also cause health problems. If you plan on flipping the home this is an added cost that needs to be fixed before selling.

Land: where a home sits is just as important as the home. Is the home prone to floods or wildfires? Do you share a driveway with another property? Is there fencing, was it built and positioned properly?

Insulation: proper insulation can save you money on heating and cooling costs in the future. Be sure to check attics, heating ducts, water pipes and windows. Double pane windows can save you money and also serve as soundproofing from outdoor noise.

Electrical: Make sure that all the electrical components in a house work like the lights, outlets and appliances. Any time you see loose or exposed wire you should consider that a red flag. Look at the electrical boxes for any signs or damage or deterioration. Also keep in mind that electrical wires and boxes should be organized and clean. If something is messy, cluttered or dirty feel free to get a professional to take a second glance.

Always remember to follow your gut instinct on inspections. If something feels wrong or looks debatable it is always best to get professional advice. Consulting with a professional can help answer any questions you may have and end up saving you thousands in the long run.