If you’re in the market for a new home, touring different properties can be the “fun part” – at least compared to all the mortgage paperwork you’ll be dealing with later! But as you walk through home after home, it can be difficult to keep them separate in your head. Remembering to inspect each property for signs of potential problems can be even more challenging.
It can be helpful to create a checklist to bring with you, so that you inspect for basic issues like plumbing leaks, signs of water damage, electrical problems, and the potential for a pest control situation.
We can help with that last part. While it’s always best to have a certified pest control technician rule out any signs of termites or other pests, you probably don’t want to bring a professional along to each appointment. So in the beginning stages of considering a potential home purchase, you can narrow your options by looking for the following signs of termites.
Check the foundation and potential entry points to the home. If you see “mud tunnels” around the foundation of the home, or leading up to doors, windows, porches, and eaves, this is almost a sure sign of a termite infestation.
Examine wood structures. Check wood trim, both inside and outside the home, for signs of rot or “chewing”. If you see holes, signs of damage, or sagging floors, this home could have damage to the wood structures. Of course, it might or might not be from termites, but they are a common culprit.
Look for “sawdust”. As termites do their dirty work, you might notice little piles of “sawdust” in corners, under windows, near doorways and wood trim, and in other locations throughout the home.
Ask about a termite bond. If the home is covered by a current termite bond, your realtor should have this information on file.
For some buyers, a termite problem might not entirely rule out a home that is otherwise perfect. We can certainly take a look at the situation for you, evaluate the potential expense involved, and address the termite problem if you decide to proceed with the purchase. In many cases, the sellers are willing to address this problem before the purchase is completed, so that you can proceed with peace of mind. Just give us a call if you need a professional opinion, and we’ll be happy to help.