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Things to Know when Inspecting Your Property

The recent downturn in parts of the country's real estate market may make it seem like a home or condo buyer's dream. With so many places to choose where prices are falling, the idea of having a place that seems nearly perfect for you may make buying it immediately tempting. This includes primary, or even secondary, (vacation) homes.

However, once you've put down the money and are on your own is where you might find all those little quirks that made the place charming at first are now an emotional and financial burden. Thoughts of living in the property for years may turn to thoughts of selling as soon as possible. There are many reasons why you should take the time to have an inspector look over your new house or condo, but there are also things that you need to be aware of because checking into them now can save you grief in the long run.

• Home inspection report - Keep this where you can find it and reread it. Use it as a checklist for maintenance. Closing on the house is stressful, but even worse is a basement that floods or a ceiling with a growing crack. This can happen in homes or condos that are aged, but newly built residences, too.
• Water - Water will creep into the basement, foundation, and roof. Water damage and corrosion are reportedly 90 percent of homeowners' problems. Make sure all the plumbing is inspected (bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens) before you move in, and regularly after you move in. Simple fixes now can keep water seepage out of walls. Make sure the gutters are in good shape as these are a major defense against water damage.
• Roofs - A good rule of thumb is that if the roof is more than 12 years old, then it needs to be inspected professionally. Hopefully, if you live in a condo, the property management will take care of this, but you're on your own if you buy a home. Rather than climbing on the roof yourself where you can break shingles or get hurt, check for spots with binoculars where the mineral coating is worn.
• Labeled breakers - Just because the breakers have been labeled by the previous owner doesn't make them right. Map out the electrical system as soon as you can by determining which circuits serve which outlets. If your electrical system is ten years or older it needs to be updated. Be aware that most homes have circuits that can only have 15 amps. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) should be installed near bathroom and kitchen sinks, in the garage and laundry room, as well as exterior outlets. This will prevent fires and electrocutions. An inexpensive fix for a potentially fatal problem.
• Shut-offs - Know where the electrical and water shut-off valves are located. Make sure they are accessible.
• Leaks - All plumbing and fixtures should be inspected for corrosion and rust. Faucets that leak need new washers. Toilets that run all the time need new flappers, but you should also watch for slow leaks.
• Warranties - While homeowner warranties may be pricey, they provide peace of mind. If something breaks, you can use the warranty rather than spend time looking for a repair company.
• Insurance - Your insurance policy should outline exactly what will be covered in case there is a catastrophe. Even if your home or condo is brand new, videotape or photograph all valuables, write down the date items were purchased, and keep a list of their serial numbers if they need to be reimbursed.
• Flood insurance - More and more homes and condominium complexes are put in flood zones. However, almost 40% of flood claims come from homeowners whose property was not designated a flood zone. Improper drainage, a heavy storm, or construction can cause your home or condo to flood.

While these are things to know when you move into your property, they should also be considered before you move in. If you find any problems and it seems that the seller or developer will not fix them or meet you half way, you may be able to back out even if you have already put down a deposit.

If you are in need of a property deposit refund lawyer to help you get back your deposit and are anywhere in Florida including the Miami, West Palm, Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Boca, or Orlando, please contact our Florida Property Rights Attorneys at the Florida Property
Rights Law Firm, P.A. We will be happy to answer any questions you have in an initial consultation.