10 Things to look at when Buying a House

I.FOUNDATION: Does the structure appear to be stable. In SW Oklahoma that doesn't mean any cracks aren't visible but are they stable. Are walls bowed, ceilings sagging and foundations leaning. Most foundation experts will offer a free inspection to help you determine if any action is needed.

II.ROOF: Does the roof appear to be in good condition. Do you notice any bowing or bulging in the roof. Are shingles missing. Do the shingles appear to be “curling” on the edges. Many roofers will give you a free inspection to help you determine if any repaired are needed.

III.WINDOWS: Are they single paned or double. If they are older they are probably single, if so, are there storm windows on the outside that offers more energy efficiency. Cracked or broken windows are generally fairly inexpensive to replace. Only having to replace the entire window, meaning the glass and the frame, can the cost begin to go up but still not a huge expense.

IV.HVAC: Your heating and cooling unit. Just because a unit is old doesn’t mean it doesn’t work. A good professional can clean and service the unit and with attention to frequent filter changes, monthly, you can continue to get good service for quite some time. I have been surprised at how long a unit can continue to work, 20 to 30 years is not uncommon. Possible cost to inspect and clean $65 to $150.

V.ELECTRIC: While this is more difficult for a novice to determine you can pay attention to the outlets looking for any burn marks, are any of the lights flickering or diming off and on and look at the electrical box to see how old it seems to be. Hiring a professional is well worth the cost of maybe $75 to $125.

VI.PLUMBING: What kind of water pressure to have when you turn on the faucets. Do faucets, in or out, drip. Do toilet flush and fill properly. Do drains drain quickly. Is there a clean-out somewhere in the yard.

VII.WALLS: Holes or cracks are easily repaired by a professional. Color of paint is a preference and not considered structural so don’t be put off by wild or crazy colors, just break out the paint brush and express yourself.

VIII.FLOOR COVERING: This is not a structural issue so changing out the flooring is a matter of preference. A good carpet cleaning company can do wonders and some elbow grease applied liberally can offer new life to dirty tiled or vinyl flooring.

IX.YARD: Are trees or large shrubs growing close to the house. Are there any tree limbs brushing up against the house or roof. CUT them back or cut the trees down. Generally not a big deal. Occasionally the tree is too big and you will need a professional to remove the tree. Estimates are free.

X.NEIGBORS: People usually like to talk about themselves so asking their opinion about the neighborhood can open up a flood gate of information that is good and bad about the area. Just ask!