Do you have new boots?

What does new boots have to do with real estate you ask?  Well, boots are an important component of the new roofing and when replacing your roof shingles.  When replacing your roof, it’s important to ensure the rubber boots around stacks and protrusions in your roof are also replaced. 

I’ve seen leaks when a home has a newer roof, so in this day and age of multiple offers and buyers waiving conditions to home inspection on their offers, I decided to take a Certified Residential System Expert (CRSE) to help buyers be as informed as possible.

No, I’m not becoming a home inspector and will never pretend to be one, however I want to be armed with as much information and expertise as possible to help buyers and sellers in this brisk real estate market.  

As part of my training and certification as a Certified Residential System Expert, I learned the key areas to review and a home and indications when there may be a concern worth further investigation.  As a certified CRSE,  I am part of a membership based organization that provides ongoing training and gives me access to a host of home inspectors who are available to answer virtual questions if I observe an area of question or concern.  The home inspector can respond with a quick assessment, which has come in handy when what seemed concerning at first glance, can get quick feedback which is very helpful in this time sensitive real estate market.

In this market the showing times may be 15 to 30 minutes, so a few of the key things I am looking for during a showing when considering a property with my buyers:

• Are there cracks in the foundation?  Some cracks are not of great concern, however if you see a horizontal foundation crack, time to further investigate, that may indicate a wall structure issue.
• How are the supports in the basement?  Are they leaning and properly supported?  A basement support should be attached at the top and be secured on the bottom, beyond just sitting on the concrete floor, for example secured on a thick metal plate.
• Are all vents for the dryer, furnace, hot water heater etc. of the proper material and extended to the outside?  Sometimes venting will be installed into the attic or garage which is not up to code, not to mention being unsafe.
• Are all downspouts set to move water away from the foundation?  If not, buying extensions at the home improvement store is a quick and inexpensive fix. 

Nothing replaces the expertise from a certified home inspector, to help you understand the condition of potentially the largest purchase in your life.  It is important to note, when choosing a home inspector, rely on a solid referral from your Realtor ® or trusted friend, as not all home inspectors come with the same qualifications and experience.  So, it’s important to check the credentials and experience of your home inspector as best as you can.  

Currently there is no mandatory licensing for home inspectors, so like when buying a home, buyer beware.   

Hopefully as the market approaches a more balanced market, home inspections will come back as a standard clause in purchase agreements,  so buyers, and sellers can have greater peace of mind.  

I hope this blog has highlighted the importance of working with experts in navigating the real estate market.  I am here to answer any questions on the current market, search up some areas of interest or refer you to experts to help you with this real estate journey.