Homes for sale are gussied up to look wonderful!, and it is easy to miss these key indicators of home renovation pitfalls (that can come back later to haunt):
- Work performed by part-time, unlicensed construction workers. Instead, look for full time specialists in their fields (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, roofing, etc.) and who are licensed in your State. They should be working under a Building Permit, too, for your max protection.
- Cutting corners with materials. Examples: many seams in granite countertops, corners and joints that don't really fit well, gaps, cracks, items that are adjacent but don't really match exactly (ceramic tile, paint, flooring ~ the list goes on). You want quality materials and products in any home you purchase; they don't have to be the most expensive, but should be sound, well-made (and under warranty) and properly installed.
- Old systems not updated. Best example is the electrical panel. It requires a service upgrade in most cases to handle the additional electrical load that many renovations require. Though there may be "space" in the old electrical panel, is it wise to pack it to the max, perhaps doubling circuits, to avoid this expense? No! Current Electrical Code offers many safety features which add great value to the home. Same holds true with HVAC systems. Plumbing systems can be upgraded room by room, however.
Questions about renovations in homes for sale? I'd love to help - just call me at 843-693-0690
or email duval.acker@carolinaone.com. I'd love to talk with you ~~
