This is Part 3 of a 3 part series – Viewing The Home’s Systems.
When viewing an Open House, it is important to look past pretty (and ugly) and look for clues to the home’s maintenance and structural soundness. Don’t be fooled by a newly painted and well-staged home and assume the home has been properly maintained. Equally important, don’t turn away from a bargain by assuming the ugly home hasn’t. Cosmetic repairs are relatively cheap, major home and structural repairs aren’t!
If you want to start from the beginning, Part I – Viewing the Home’s Exterior and Part II – Viewing the Home’s Interior
Heating
How old is the heating unit? HVAC systems can be found in closets, the garage or the attic (newer homes). Older HVAC systems – even if they were energy efficient in their day – may not be “efficient” by current standards. Replacing the HVAC is expensive so ask for the age and efficiency level of the unit.
Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning units are typically located outside the home. View the screens around the outside of the unit for wear and tear, damage or discoloration. Does the owner have a male dog? Male dogs LOVE to urinate on the air conditioning unit (it’sjust a really big fire hydrant to a dog). This damages the ability of the compressor to function and is considered a pre-existing condition so the damage is NOT covered under Home Warranty policies. Replacement of the unit when it fails will be entirely at the expense of the homeowner.
Hot Water Heater
How old is the Water Heater? The average life of a Water Heater is 10 – 13 years but many homes have water heaters approaching 20 years old. How many gallons does the Water Heater hold and is it sufficient for the size of the house? A 30 gallon water heater is common in condos and smaller homes, a 40 gallon water heater appropriate for average homes and a 50 gallon water heater is best for 4+ bedroom homes.
Electrical
View the electrical panel – this is especially important if the home has a pool or spa. If the electrical panel wasn’t upgraded to accomodate the energy draw of a pool or spa, an electrical upgrade may be required to handle your electrical needs if you have more people or more technology than the current owners.
Utility bills are the second largest expense of home ownership, second only to the mortgage payment. Evaluating the home’s systems will help you compare the ongoing expense of equivalent homes you are viewing.
If you want to view a home that isn’t held Open, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment to view a home.
© Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Real Estate Resource
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