Do you love the house design ideas on our site? Feel free to use them as inspiration for your dream home.
But because pre-owned homes might be more practical for others, we share here some tips on the things you need to check before buying and moving into a pre-owned house:
1. Broken Floor or Wall Tiles
Broken tiles can be costly to change.
If they don’t have extra tiles with the exact same shade and design available, these replacements could stick out and look bad.
The former owners or your real estate agent could arrange for these tiles to be replaced – and you can ask for the amount to be deducted from your home’s price tag.
2. Water Stains & Marks on the Walls
These could indicate whether the place is prone to flooding or if there are holes on the walls and ceilings that could leak during rainy days.
3. Fully Functioning Water Pipes & Leakage
Water is one of the most important aspects in any home.
So, make sure that the water pipes are good and there isn’t any leakage.
To check for leakage, close all the faucets and check the meter.
If the gauge is still moving, then there’s a leak somewhere along the line. You can get a plumber to fix this ASAP.
However, that can cost a lot of money, especially if it involves breaking some cement floors or fixtures to fix the issue.
4. Fully Functioning, Safe Electrical Outlets & Switches
Electricity is also very important. So, check if all the electrical outlets and switches work.
You should also ask about the main breaker.
5. Firmly Attached Doorknobs & Hinges
Of course, you might feel safer changing these doorknobs and locks once you finalize the sale, but it’s good to still check them for proper function.
6. Safe Stairs
If the house has stairs, always check both floors before deciding.
The stairs must be safe, including all the steps, railings, banisters, and posts.
7. Properly Functioning Drains & Sinks
This is also very important or you’ll be dealing with frequently flooded drains and sinks.
8. Safety and Security
How secure is this place? Check for safety and security hazards in and around your house.
If there are higher floors, check if there are fire exits with easy-to-deploy stairs.
9. Neighborhood
While you can’t judge your neighbors by their looks, it’s still good to gauge your neighborhood. Ask yourself whether you will still find the place safe if you’re alone at night.
10. Other Potential Hazards
Check for possible fall risks, toxic materials, unstable furnishings and fixtures, or any other potential hazards to you and your family.
