RESALE 

Homes with a past have a special appeal.  Existing homes are a settled place; the foundation, the landscaping, the neighborhood, and the neighborhood services are probably where they are going to be for some time.  An existing home has a lived-in look.  The things to be looking out for are wear and tear items:

 ·        Is the foundation solid?

·        Are the windowsills, walls, floors and ceilings sound?

·        When and what kind of plumbing was installed?

·        What kind of condition and extent of the electrical system?

·        What is the condition of the heating/cooling system?

·        What are the monthly utility costs?

·        What is the extent of the insulation?

·        What will it cost to remodel and make necessary repairs (especially to kitchen and baths)? All of these items will be   
  thoroughly checked by your home inspector.  

New Construction 

New home construction is changing all the time, builders are trying to adapt designs to today’s lifestyles, incorporate new technology, building materials and equipment while keeping prices as affordable as possible.  Buying a new home is attractive because everything is new.  Energy efficiency is required by building codes.  If the new home is under construction you can usually choose paint, carpet, etc.  In a new home you expect that your maintenance costs will be predictable and the builder’s warranty usually guarantees against structural flaws. 

Some of the signs of good construction are: good carpentry (well fitted windows and molding, wood floors that do not squeak and even wall surfaces); solid structure; no cracks or damp spots in basement floors and walls; insulation that measures as advertised; everything in good working order (faucets, electrical, heating, etc.); a yard without low, wet spots, grading that slopes away from the house. 

A home inspector should be engaged to check new construction, too!