Top Ten Concerns for Kelowna Home Buyers and Sellers

This is a popular post on many sites on the web with great info for home buyers in the Okanagan.

No matter the age, style, or location of a house, there are common problems that are likely to turn up during a home inspection. Understanding what these potential defects can be, and how to manage them, is key to making the most out of your buing experience.

RPC identifies the top ten most common concerns:

1. Structural damage: As the foundation settles, it can knock doorways,walls and support beams out of alignment. The end result could make the entire house a safety hazard.

2. Faulty Wiring: Older homes often need electrical upgrades, especially if you plan on installing a lot of electronics (computers, lighting) or pools and hot tubs. Making sure circuits are not overloaded can reduce the risk of a fire

3. Leaky Roof: Roofs may leak due to poor construction or aging materials. The question is, will the subsequent repairs be minor (repacing shingles) or major (replacing the entire roof)?

4. Failing Heating System: If it's an older system, it can pay to upgrade to one that uses less energy and is more efficient. If you have a gas or oil heat system, a carbon monoxide detector is advisable.

5. Plumbing Defects: Older homes may have faulty pipes made of polybutylene-popular in the 1970s till mid-1990s-which are prone to leakage and should probably be replaced with newer more reliable materials.

6. Poor Drainage: If the property is not graded properly, water may not drain away from the house. In addition, gutters and downspouts should be checked and replaced if necessary.

7. Insufficient Ventilation: Check the bathrooms. Without enough ventilation, moisture may have built up, potentially causing structural damage inside the walls.

8. Water Intrusion: If you have water seepage in your home, be sure to add caulk or weatherstripping. Water leaks can lead to mold, mildew and dry rot.

9. Improper Install or Maintenace: Any did-it-themselves, nonprofessional repairs or upgrades could be an aggravation or hazard down the line.

10. Hazardous Materials: Older homes may contain lead based paint, asbestos, carbon monoxide, radon gas or toxic molds. Any of these could eventually cause serious health problems.

David Federici
Greenwave Construction
Kelowna, BC
(250) 575-2690
http://www.greenwaveconstruction.ca/
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