Cracks In Brick Siding - Back out of deal or keep investigating
I am in contract on a house and the inspection report revealed some cracking on the brick siding. The inspector suggested to get a structural engineer to check it out. I'm debating whether it's worth it to spend $550 for a Structural engineer to look at it or back out of the deal. I definitely won't proceed not knowing how big the issue is. I've already paid $300 for a home inspection, and I'm wondering if I should just keep investigating the issue or keep looking for a new house.
The house is in East Point, Ga. It's about $130k and expected Cash on Cash return is about 8%. Other than this issue, the house is in decent shape and I like the area.
Most Popular Reply
#3 Investor Mindset Contributor
- Handyman
- Pittsburgh, PA
Spend the $550. This is the kind of situation where it's nothing or it's a lot. How old is the place? Where else do you see issues? Is that interior wall drywall or plaster? Do other houses in the area have the same issues. Those are classic Z-cracks in the corners of windows indicating foundation settling, and one of them has even been repaired, indicating this is an ongoing thing. Both are larger than the 1/4-inch in width usually quoted as nothing to worry about.
If you find out it's nothing, hallelujah. Ask for a concession anyway. The seller knows this will drive other potential buyers away.