Red Flags Your Real Estate Agent Knows to Check For

Whether you’re looking to buy a new home or making sure yours is up to code before you sell, it pays to think about the inner workings of the space. No buyer wants to purchase a home that needs an unexpected major renovation, and no seller wants to get a lower sale price for a home that’s not well-maintained. Don’t be surprised if your REALTOR® asks about any of these:

Is your plumbing up to snuff?
Leaky pipes under the sink or water stains on your ceiling might indicate a problem with plumbing and your buyer is sure to notice. At best, these can cause unpleasant smells and take time to fix, while at worst they can cause major foundational damage and require thousands of dollars to repair. To avoid this, consider having a licensed plumber inspect the home before you buy or sell.

Is your HVAC system doing its job?
The purpose of an HVAC is to heat and cool your home as necessary. If your home never seems to get warm or is sweltering when it shouldn’t be, this could mean your HVAC system needs to be serviced. At worst, it might need replacing altogether, which can cost thousands. Head this off at the pass by having your system checked annually and changing your filters as recommended by a service provider.

Is your roof in good repair?
Selling your home when the roof is due for a major repair can seriously impact the leverage you have when negotiating. Make sure your roof is inspected every few years, especially after a major storm, which are common in many parts of Canada. This goes for the roof of a freestanding garage or any other dwelling on your property.

Are there any electrical problems that you know of?
Even if your lights seem to work just fine, electrical systems, like any kind of system, can experience wear or tear over time. In addition, today we require outlets or power for many more things than ever before, like multiple computers, home assistive devices and high-efficiency appliances. Many houses were not designed to accommodate so much electricity. Make sure your home is regularly inspected by a licensed electrician if you have any concerns.

Remember: your real estate agent might bring these areas to your attention, but whether you’re a buyer or a seller, it’s your responsibility to have them inspected or maintained.