If you are interested in a particular piece of real estate in Houston, one thing you need to learn is how to examine or inspect it. There are any number of ways to look at a home. Some are more obvious than others are. While it is always best to leave the actual home inspection to the experts, it is important you know what to look for when you visit. This will save you some time on having to go through the process of falling in love with the appearance of a particular house in Houston only to find out later that it is all superficial beauty.
Exterior
Start with the exterior. If the exterior of the home or other form of real estate is in a state of neglect or disrepair, it foreshadows the condition of the interior even mechanical systems. Look at the overall quality of the construction and ask yourself certain questions:
1. What is the state of the exterior wall finish?
2. Does it appear to be weather tight?
3. Has the owner kept up its maintenance?
4. Are there any dents in the siding or is the brick stained?
5. Is there any paint or wood blistering or peeling indicating condensation problems?
6. If the exterior is brick is there any indications of sloping away or settling?
7. Check the foundation and the walls for cracks
Roofs, Gutters and Downspouts
Roofs prevent moisture from entering the home. They also protect the exterior walls of residential and commercial real estate from becoming too wet when it rains and snows. Glance up at the roof – use binoculars if you must, to gage the condition of the roof. Are there any loose shingles? Does it look old or relatively new? Be sure to find out when it was repaired or replaced last.
Gutters and downspouts are intended to collect rainwater (and melting snow). They send it off safely to another location. Sometimes, this is a rain barrel. It may also be directly into a storm sewer system or onto the lawn. Be sure the gutters have been cleaned out. See if they are firmly attached and correctly installed.
Landscape
Landscape can also say much about the condition of real estate. In Houston, lawns continue to be popular. Is the grass maintained, being cut regularly and treated in accordance with the by-laws of the city?
You should also consider the condition of the trees on the property.
1. What type of trees are they?
2. Are they in good shape without evidence of disease or broken limbs?
3. Are they positioned to provide protection from the wind and sun in the summer?
4. Do they stand far enough from the house to provide protection but not be a nuisance where the structural systems are concerned?
5. Do any branches hang over your house or shed into the neighbor’s real estate?
Preventing Errors in your Real Estate Selection
By being observant and looking closely at the exterior of a structure including its landscape, you may help prevent yourself from wasting too much time with the wrong piece of real estate. In Houston, an agent is always helpful in sorting out the flawed property, but, in the end, it is up to you to determine what is and what is not acceptable.
Are you looking for a particular piece of Real Estate in Houston? Are you uncertain about where you want to live? Discover how friendly and experienced agents at Keller Williams Realty can help you find exactly what you want. To learn more about why you can trust us, visit http://www.kwmemorial.com.
