Notice a specific fragrance in a home? What is is masking? Pets? Smoke? Musty lower level flowers?
Fix: Fortunately- most smells will dissipate. Look out in bedrooms below ground level because if someone has allergies, it may be a problem.
Large Area Rugs/Furniture
If not during the initial showing, be sure to check into what area rugs and oddly placed furniture may be hiding. Wine stains or cigarette burns on the carpet and warping or water damage to hardwood floors are all things that you should look out for. Condominiums on high floors (especially those without window treatments) are subject to significant sun exposure. Owners may not even realize that their area rugs are causing their hardwood floor to discolor.
Fix: If it is true hardwood, you may be able to sand, stain, and refinish the floors. If it is a floating or prefabricated hardwood floor, you can either buy a similar area rug or get ready to replace to floor!
Lack of Maintenance
If a home looks unkempt, most likely, key maintenance items have been overlooked (roof, furnace, etc).
Fix: A cleaning (or hazmat) crew and a home warranty may help ease your mind. When choosing a home warranty, read terms carefully so you fully understand your coverage. Some policies may not include everything.
Also- start to budget to maintain, repair, and even replace items your home inspector red flags.
House Age
Depending on when a home was built, you may get more than you bargained for. Everything from outdated electric capacity to substandard insulation can be expensive and a hassle but some problems require professional assistance. If a home was built before 1970, it may contain lead based paint which can be dangerous (especially for children) and requires specific and professionally handled removal.
Fix: Homeowner's are required to complete a lead-based paint disclosure to sell their homes in Illinois. Lead based paint is serious, but no scary.
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