Are you looking to purchase a foreclosure or fixer-upper in St. Charles, Illinois? Perhaps you’re considering a home in St. Charles that needs plumbing repair or a new roof. Buying a home is probably the largest investment you will make in your lifetime and requires careful consideration and planning. One of the critical points in buying any home, whether it needs renovation or is in foreclosure, is location. A home in a bad neighborhood is one you should probably avoid regardless of any other factors.
Buying a home in foreclosure is a somewhat complex process, and you will definitely want to do your homework before going this route. Unless you are prepared to do a considerable amount of research and try to navigate through the complications yourself, the best option is to work with a real estate agent specializing in foreclosures. The agent will have a list of homes that have been repossessed by a lender, usually a bank, and can guide you through the process.
Buying a fixer-upper that is not going through foreclosure is relatively straightforward, but you need to be sure the repair costs will not exceed your budget. The key to successfully purchasing any home that needs repairs is having it inspected by a qualified professional. The inspector will determine what needs to be repaired or replaced and give you an estimate of the expenses involved. Here are some of the most important parts of any home inspection.
• Structure – The general construction of the walls and foundation should be sound.
• Roof and Attic – These areas should be free of moisture and leaks, and the roofing material should be in good shape.
• Basements – Damp basements can indicate poor drainage on the property or structural damage to the foundation walls, either of which might be too expensive to repair.
• Electrical – The inspection will determine if the electrical system is in good working order or needs upgrading.
• Plumbing – The inspector will check for leaks and test the water pressure. He may also test the septic system.
• Termites – A thorough pest inspection should be done to determine if any termites or other insects are a danger to the home.
• Mold – Mold and mildew in a house can indicate a serious moisture problem. The cause must be found and repaired.
• Heating and Cooling – The home heating and cooling system should be tested for any sign of potential problems.
When you purchase a fixer-upper or a home in foreclosure getting experts to help you makes all the difference. For example, if you are considering a home with plumbing problems, you would want a St. Charles expert in plumbing repairs to make the necessary improvements.
Patrick Whalen is a part of an elite team of writers who have contributed to hundreds of blogs and news sites. Follow him @2patwhalen.