Help me evaluate repairs

[Jacob Mayfield]

FIRST DEAL NEW INVESTOR 

paid inspection report

Hey Guys! This is the first property I am looking to purchase. They are asking 180,000; it is a duplex (2 bed, 1 bath, 2 units)

This is an estate sale and a quick decision

• -Does anything in this inspection report stand out as a deal breaker to you?
• -Based on the condition described, would you still consider moving forward or start backing off?
• -What items here would you prioritize fixing immediately vs handling later?
• -Which parts of this report tend to get more expensive than they first appear?
• -Are there any red flags that suggest bigger hidden issues behind what’s listed?
• -How do you personally factor in unknowns when reviewing a report like this?
• -At what point would you try to renegotiate vs just walk away?
• -Are there specific items here you’d want a specialist to look at before making a decision?
• -Does this look more like a manageable first deal or something better suited for a more experienced investor?
• -What would you want to see or verify next before feeling confident moving forward?

Any feedback helps!

[Ni Robinson]

I recently reviewed an inspection report for a 40+ year old duplex and wanted to get some input, but also share my own takeaway. Nothing in the report is an immediate deal breaker on its own, but the combination of issues gives me pause—especially the pattern of moisture showing up in multiple areas (crawlspace, interior walls, and drainage issues outside), along with suspected microbial growth and an active plumbing leak in the crawlspace. That suggests a broader moisture problem rather than isolated defects, which can lead to hidden rot, structural damage, and ongoing costs if not fully addressed. Beyond that, several major systems are at or past their expected life (HVAC systems around 20–26 years old, water heaters over 20 years, older electrical with a fuse panel), so there’s a clear expectation of near-term capital expenses. If I moved forward, I’d treat this as a heavier project—not a light rehab—and only proceed if the price reflects something like $30k–$60k+ in repairs and I had strong cash reserves. Immediate priorities would be crawlspace remediation (including moisture control and leak repair), addressing any mold concerns, fixing key electrical safety issues, and correcting drainage, with HVAC, panel upgrades, and other repairs phased shortly after. The biggest risk here is scope creep—things like crawlspace work, mold remediation, electrical upgrades, and old plumbing systems tend to get more expensive once opened up. I’d also want specialists (crawlspace/waterproofing, mold inspector, HVAC, electrician, plumber with sewer scope) to better define the true scope before committing. Overall, this feels more suited for someone with experience or strong reserves rather than a first-time, low-risk deal. I’d try to renegotiate based on the findings, but if the seller isn’t realistic or the moisture issues prove more extensive than expected, I’d seriously consider walking and finding a cleaner opportunity.