Buying a new home can be one of the proudest, most exciting moments in your life. Unfortunately, it can be riddled with trouble and insecurities as well. Unless you are specifically looking for a fixer-upper, you want to be sure the home you will be living in will fulfill a lifetime of happy memories and not avoidable health issues. While small repairs such as a leaking faucet or a coat of paint to cover that disagreeable golden color from decades ago are common, finding out your new mortgage comes with hidden water damage can be devastating to your wallet, health and happiness.
If water damage isn’t properly handled it can lead to other problems such as mold, odors, structural damage and uneven floors. The repairs, when left to worsen, get even more costly. And mold can wreak havoc on your and your family’s health.
How can you tell if a seller is trying to cover up previous damage? Hopefully your inspector will notice beforehand. On your own you can look for signs such as fresh paint only over certain areas or musty odors. Be sure to check corners, ceilings, attics, basements and outside walls as well as inside. Trust your gut. If something seems off, have a professional check in the walls. Get estimates on any found damage before putting in an offer.
If you do find yourself in a position of needing some clean up, it’s best to not try this as your first DIY project. Replacing wood and drywall may not seem too hard if you’re handy, but let a professional assess the damage. Mold can be especially dangerous and needs to be cleaned effectively. Fire damage is another hazard that often isn’t thought about or noticed right away.
Try not to be discouraged if damage, big or small, is found in your new home. Allow the right clean up company to alleviate the damage. Keep loving your home for years to come and if the time comes for you to sell, you will have the peace of mind of knowing it was well taken care of for the next family.
If you just purchased a new home in the Phoenix metro area including in Mesa, Chandler, or Gilbert call us at 480-309-2524
