Avoid a Money Pit! 3 things to look for when shopping for a house in Reading, Pennsylvania.

Avoid a Money Pit! 3 things to look for when shopping for a house in Reading, Pennsylvania.

This time of year a lot of people are beginning to get their homes ready to put on the market, others have started making a check list of things they would like in a new home. Many don’t consider adding plumbing to that check list…but they should. A house with a failing plumbing system can turn a dream home into a nightmare money pit
quickly. As the Reading, Pennsylvania community prepares for the home buying season, here are three things you should consider when looking for a new home.

1.Water Pressure

When walking through a potential home consider turning on the shower and checking the water pressure. While you are at it, turn on the sink and flush the toilet as well. If there is low water pressure, or a drop in water pressure, it could mean that there is a leaking pipe or a blocked pipe someplace in the water lines, or it could be as simple as a shower head that needs a good cleaning.

2. Go house shopping in the rain

It may not seem like the best time to go, but house shopping in the rain is actually a smart idea. It will let you see if there are any landscaping, gutter, and roof issues, as well as give you an opportunity to see what the basement is like during a rain storm. Check the basement, especially the corners, for moisture.  Look for cracks in the walls, wet spots on the walls or carpets, or a musty smell. Moisture in the basement may be a serious problem. If the moisture is a result of flooding than fixing the problem could cost you anywhere from two thousand to fifteen thousand dollars. A wet basement could just need a humidifier, a new sump pump, and a good cleaning. Or, worse yet, it could need thousands of dollars in renovations. Have a professional check to make sure which problem you are facing.

3. Turn up the heat and turn on the air

Make sure to check out the HVAC system. Are the heating and air conditioning systems old or new? Have they been consistently maintained? When was the last time the vents were cleaned? While you are there check to see if the thermostat matches the feel of the house. Are there rooms that are warmer or colder than others? Also ask to have the heat or air conditioning turned on (whichever one is not currently being used) and see how long it takes to cool or heat things up. Lastly, ask for a copy of the utility bills to get an idea of how much it costs to heat or cool the home. If it looks expensive it may be an efficiency or insulation issue.

Home shopping is exciting and fun, but it is also serious business. When looking for a new home, or putting one on the market, make sure it is in the best condition it can be. If you spot problems make sure to get them taken care of before buying or selling to make sure you get the best deal possible. And if you are not sure what to look for, it doesn’t hurt to have a professional plumber and HVAC specialist, like The Plumbing Works, to come and inspect the home.

For testimonials, money saving tips and coupons, visit us on the web  orcall one of our friendly representatives today. At The Plumbing Works we are all about service.