Home ownership is a right of passage. As it’s customary to search for the “right home,” take the time to understand your wants, needs, and an absolutely not list. Then, as a homeowner who has since developed a new list of home non-negotiables, sellers may get started on selling their current home. 
As the saying goes, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” However, one must stop and think, how far will that take you?
The truth is sellers want their homes sold. But, as a buyer, you want to look out for these everyday hacks sellers are using to sell their homes quickly and to pass the inspection. Take some time to read over the following:
Callously failing to disclose issues: Buyers beware! As the seller has to fully disclose any known issues, sellers may suffer from memory loss. As awful as it sounds, fixing problems in the home takes time and, of course, money. Sellers are looking to invest in their new home, leaving you with their lived-in bill!
Take the time to ask questions and do your due diligence when confronting sellers over potential issues.
Painting or decorating over problem areas: The tricky part about a home showing is everything is pristine to the naked eye. It isn’t until the decorations come down and the room is stripped bare that you begin to notice the imperfections. We’d love to give our sellers the benefit of the doubt when presenting their home and disclosing its issues, although, at times, that may not be the case. During the home inspection period, if you need to do some extra digging, do so! This inspection period is the time for the buyer to get a good idea of what they’re potentially getting into with a house that has a history.
Adding new carpet: Fresh paint and a new carpet may be an easy way to add value or aesthetic quickly, but if done for the purpose of tricking a buyer into believing they’re receiving “brand new” when in reality they’re getting “covered up.” it is just plain wrong.
Read the whole seller’s disclosure document to learn about any issues the house may have had (even if fixed, problems may be recurring).
Restricting areas: A major red flag is a restricted area. When purchasing a home, you’re hopefully buying the entire home. Therefore you should be able to tour the premises. If the seller restricts areas during the home inspection, you may want to reconsider the transaction entirely.
Your home inspection is the perfect time to identify and speak on any issues you notice, have been disclosed, or you might question. Do not hesitate to speak up and out on any concerns you may have, assuring your dream home is not one out of a nightmare!
Are you looking to buy a home? Contact our office to schedule your home inspection today!
