Flipping Fixer Upper Homes

Investing in a home is a big step in anyone's life whether they're a first time or fourth-time buyer. To ensure that your next home investment is one that won't let you down, consider paying for the following services before making an offer:

Land Surveying

Land surveying is an important service to consider paying for when deciding whether or not a home you're interested in is worth making an offer on. A professional land surveyor will inspect the entirety of the property and provide you with information such as:

• Precise Boundary Line Specs

• Easement and Right-of-Way Designations

• Exact Well and Waterway Locations

• Underground Water, Electric, and Gas Line Locations

All of this information will provide you with a clear picture of the property and ensure that you understand your legal rights and the rights of others who may have a stake in any easements and right-of-ways that are located on the property.

Termite and Wood Rot Inspecting

It's also in your best interest to have the home you're considering buying inspected for wood rot and the existence of termites. If there is a large termite infestation or extensive wood rot present, the home may not be worth as much as the asking price and you'll find yourself in a good position to negotiate your offer. You may even find that the home's foundation or framing is falling apart due to extreme damage, and the home isn't worth buying at all. Knowing about wood rot and termites before making an offer can save you literally thousands of dollars when all is said and done.

Toxin Testing

To ensure that your family will be safe living in the home you want to buy, have the place tested for all the major toxins that could be present inside or out. A professional service provider can make sure that the home isn't overrun with:

• Mold

• Asbestos

• Formaldehyde

• Methane Gas

• Radon

Make sure you receive official reports of the test results for these toxins before placing an offer on any home you're interested in buying.

Sewer and Septic Performance Reporting

Another service you should opt to pay for as a preliminary step to making an offer on a home is sewer and septic performance reporting. Have a sewage professional go out to the home and inspect the pipes, pumps, septic tank, and all other components of the system to ensure that it's in good working order. Any clogs, cracked pipes, and holes in the septic tank should be included in the report so you can gauge what kind of repairs and maintenance you'll have to pay for in the coming years if you decide to buy the home.  

Contact a realtor that can help you find the right homes for sale in your area for more information and assistance.