Six Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Vacant Home | Garden State Home Loans | NJ Skip to content
Nov 17
, Six Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Vacant Home

Six Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Vacant Home

Vacant Homes

When searching for homes, you may come across a few that have laid vacant for the past few years. Before falling in love with these properties, there are a few things that you should check to ensure that the home is in tip-top condition. Here are the top things you should check before buying a vacant home.

  1. Plumbing

When the water hasn’t been turned off, pipes are prone to fractures. Plumbing fixtures require water in them to stay pliable. If there’s no water inside the pipes, flooding is possible. Make sure you turn on all water and valves a few days before a home inspection. This will allow an inspector a better chance to spot any potential issues.

  1. Faucets

Minerals can build up in unused pipes, which can prevent water from flowing when a faucet is turned on. These minerals can clog the system and are hard to get rid of. To clear out these minerals, run both hot and cold water from the faucets. Additionally, remove and clean each aerator to flush the system and place them back.

  1. Appliances

If appliances aren’t properly cleaned before they were turned off, mold and mildew can build up. In this case, you probably aren’t going to want to use the appliance when you move in. When you are bargaining for a price, include the cost of buying new appliances.

  1. The attic

A home that sits rarely sits alone. Squirrels, rats, bats, and other critters love to take solace in the warmth of an attic. In addition to them making the home theirs, they can also make snacks out of the insulation and wiring. Use a pest removal service to see if you have any infestations.

  1. Diminished home inspection

When the water, gas, or electricity is shut off, an inspector can’t properly check the condition of each area of your home. Turn on the utilities a few days before to get the most out of your inspection.

  1. High insurance

In addition to your inspection, an insurance agency may want to complete their own inspection before issuing a policy for a home that’s been vacant. Get several quotes from different companies before purchasing the home.