Buyer Blog

Introduction When buying or selling a home, the importance of home inspections cannot be overstated. In this guide we’ll share the 11 most costly inspection pitfalls that every seller should know, as well as a home inspection checklist for buyers. This information is aimed at helping both sides protect their assets and investments while also ensuring a smooth home buying or selling process. The Importance of Home Inspections For Sellers: Home buyers want to know your home inside and out before making their final decision about making an offer. While homebuyers are as individual as the homes they plan on purchasing, one thing they all share is a desire to ensure that the home they will call their own is as good beneath the surface as it appears to be. Questions about the roof, wiring, plumbing, and foundation are on the minds of buyers, and they will seek help from a professional, licensed home inspector. For Buyers: Finding your ideal home in Seattle can be challenging, and after you find it, a home inspection might seem like an extra cost. However, this step is crucial to ensure your investment is sound. Including a home inspection contingency in your purchase agreement allows you to negotiate repairs or withdraw from the purchase based on inspection results. The Need for Professional Home Inspections While you might be capable of handling some inspection tasks, professional inspectors are better equipped to identify hazardous materials like asbestos or radon, as well as mold and pest issues. Their expertise provides more leverage during negotiations and ensures the safety and integrity of your future home. 11 Most Costly Inspection Pitfalls for Sellers Defective Plumbing : Defective plumbing can manifest itself in two different ways: leaking and clogging. A visual inspection can usually detect leaks, such as water marks and stains on walls or ceilings, or wet spots in the cabinet under kitchen or bathroom faucets. For clogging, an inspector might turn on faucets in the highest bathroom and then flush the toilet to observe any potential reduction in water flow. Dirty water when a faucet is first turned on indicates rusting pipes, which can result in severe water quality problems and costly repairs. Damp or Wet Basement or Crawl Space : Inspectors check for powdery white mineral deposits on basement walls and a mildew odor. Sealing a crack in or around the basement foundation could cost from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on severity. Adding a sump pump and pit could run around a couple of thousand dollars, and complete waterproofing of an average 3-bedroom home could range from $5,000 to $25,000. Inadequate Electrical Wiring : Homes should have a minimum of 100 amps service. Inspectors test all electrical switches, outlets, GFI outlets, exposed wires, and the electrical panel to ensure safety and code compliance. Poor Heating & Cooling Systems : Insufficient insulation and inadequate or poorly functioning heating or cooling systems are common issues. Inspectors check if the furnace is within its typical life span of 15-25 years and if there are service records. Cracked heat exchangers, which can emit deadly carbon monoxide, must be replaced. Roofing Problems : Water leakage through the roof can result from physical deterioration of asphalt shingles, curling, splitting, or mechanical damage from wind storms. Leaking gutters and downspouts can lead to major internal problems. Damp Attic Spaces : Problems with ventilation, insulation, and vapor barriers can cause water, moisture, mold, and mildew to form in the attic, leading to premature wear of the roof and structure. Rotting Wood : Rotting can occur in door or window frames, trim, siding, decks, and fences. Inspectors may probe the wood to check for rot, especially where wood contacts soil. Masonry Work : Rebricking can be costly, but if left unattended, repairs can lead to water and moisture penetration into the home. This can result in clogged chimneys or even a collapsed chimney. Unsafe or Overloaded Electrical Circuits : Overloading circuits can create fire hazards. Inspectors check if circuits, especially the common 15 amp circuits and larger service circuits for appliances, are safe and up to code. Adequate Security Features : Beyond security systems, inspectors look for proper locks on windows and patio doors, deadbolts on doors, and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Structural and Foundation Problems : Inspectors investigate footings and foundations for structural integrity. Large cracks, settling, and slippage can be expensive to repair and may require addressing underlying issues. Comprehensive Home Inspection Checklist for Buyers Roof and Chimney Roof : Evaluate the condition of shingles and roof deck for rot. Chimney : Inspect for leaning and cracks in the masonry cap. Bathrooms Plumbing : Check for leaks and water damage. Fixtures : Test water pressure and drainage. Kitchen Plumbing : Examine plumbing under the sink. Electrical : ensure that there are sufficient outlets that are safe Appliances : Test exhaust fans, appliances, and garbage disposal. Interior Walls and Floors : Check for damage. Light Fixtures : Test all fixtures. Doors : Ensure they latch properly. Smoke Detectors : Verify placement and operation. Wooden Structures Damage and Paint : Inspect for damage, missing sections, and paint condition. Windows and Doors Insulation and Rot : Assess insulation quality and check for rot. Operation : Ensure they are square and airtight. Exterior and Grounds Foundation and Drainage : Inspect for damage. Gutters and Exterior Walls : Check condition. Structures : Ensure the garage, shed, fences, and deck are in good condition. Basement Moisture and HVAC : Look for moisture and evaluate the HVAC system. Attic Ventilation and Insulation : Check for stains, leaks, damage, proper ventilation, and insulation. Conclusion Understanding these 11 problem areas and following the comprehensive home inspection checklist helps identify potential issues and prevents costly surprises. Whether you are a seller preparing to list your home or a buyer looking to make an informed purchase, these insights are crucial. For a free, no-obligation PDF hard-copy version of this report contact Doron Weisbarth directly at 206-779-9808. For specific questions or advice, feel free to email doron@weisbarth.com . If you found this information useful, please subscribe to our blog. And don’t forget to follow us for more great tips. Thanks for reading!

Seattle is a city that is consistently ranked as one of the top places to live in the United States. It’s no surprise then that the demand for Seattle homes for sale is high. If you’re planning to sell your home in Seattle, it’s important to know what features buyers are looking for today. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the top home features that are in demand and can help you sell your home quickly and at a good price. Open Floor Plan Buyers today are interested in homes that have a more open, spacious feel. This can be achieved by removing walls (or just half walls) between rooms or by creating a great room that combines the living room, dining room, and kitchen into one open space. If you have a home with a more traditional layout, you may want to consider making some changes to create a more open floor plan. Updated Kitchens and Bathrooms Kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most important rooms in a home, and buyers are looking for homes that have updated versions of both. In the kitchen, buyers are interested in features like granite or quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and custom cabinetry. In the bathroom, buyers want to see updated fixtures, tile or stone flooring, and spacious showers or tubs. If your home has an outdated kitchen or bathroom, consider investing in some updates before putting it on the market. Outdoor Living Spaces Seattle is a city that is known for its natural beauty, and buyers are interested in homes that take advantage of this. Outdoor living spaces like decks, patios, and gardens can make a big difference in how buyers perceive your home. If you have a yard or outdoor space, consider creating a seating area or adding some landscaping to make it more inviting. Smart Home Technology Smart home technology is another feature that buyers are looking for in Seattle homes for sale. Smart home features like thermostats, lighting, and security systems can make a big difference in the convenience and comfort of a home. If you haven’t already, consider investing in some smart home upgrades to make your home more appealing to buyers. Home Office Space Remote work has become more prevalent than ever, and many buyers are looking for homes that have dedicated office space. This can be a separate room or a nook in another room that can be used as a workspace. If you have a spare room or space in your home that can be used as an office, consider highlighting it as a selling feature. Energy Efficiency One of the top features that buyers are looking for in Seattle homes for sale is energy efficiency. With the cost of energy on the rise, many buyers are interested in homes that can help them save on their utility bills. Energy-efficient features like double-paned windows, Energy Star-certified appliances, efficient heat pumps or mini-split systems, and good insulation can make a big difference. You may want to consider investing in these upgrades if you haven’t already. Ample Storage Space Finally, buyers are interested in homes that have ample storage space. This can be achieved through features like walk-in closets, built-in shelving, and storage space in the garage. If your home doesn’t have a lot of storage space, consider adding some shelving or organizing systems to make the most of what you have. If you need help deciding what projects might increase your home value in a cost-effective way, then call Doron Weisbarth at 206-779-9808 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Or send a message through this form .

If you're considering moving to Seattle or relocating within the city, you may be wondering whether it's better to buy or rent a home. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately depends on your lifestyle, financial situation, and personal preferences. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of buying vs renting a home in Seattle, based on research into the city's real estate market . Buying a Home in Seattle Building Equity When you buy a home, you're building equity over time as you pay off your mortgage, and as the value of the home appreciates over time. This equity can then be used to finance future investments, such as buying a second home or starting a business. Long-Term Investment Buying a home in Seattle can be a long-term investment, as the city's real estate market has historically appreciated over time. This means that your home may increase in value, providing a return on your investment if you decide to sell in the future. Tax Benefits Homeowners in Seattle can take advantage of tax benefits, such as deducting mortgage interest and property taxes on their federal income tax returns. These deductions can help lower your tax bill and save you money. Stability Buying a home provides stability and security, as you're not subject to the whims of a landlord or the rental market. You have control over your living situation and can make changes to your home as you see fit. High Upfront Costs Buying a home in Seattle requires a significant upfront investment, including a down payment, closing costs, and other fees. This can be a barrier to entry for some buyers. Maintenance and Repairs As a homeowner, you're responsible for all maintenance and repairs to your home, which can be costly and time-consuming. You'll need to budget for regular upkeep and unexpected repairs. Limited Flexibility When you own a home, you're tied to that property and may not be able to move or relocate as easily as renters. This can be a disadvantage if you need to move for work or personal reasons. Housing Market Fluctuations While Seattle's real estate market has historically appreciated over time, there are no guarantees that it will continue to do so in the future. Economic factors, such as changes in interest rates and job growth, can affect the market, potentially impacting the value of your home. Renting a Home in Seattle Renting a home can be an attractive option for many people, particularly those living in expensive real estate markets like Seattle. While owning a home has its benefits, there are several advantages to renting that make it a viable option for many. In this article, we'll explore the pros of renting a home in Seattle, based on real estate market research. Flexibility Seattle is a fast-paced and dynamic city, with a growing job market and a diverse population. Renting a home provides the flexibility and mobility to take advantage of these opportunities. Renters can easily move to new neighborhoods or cities without the burden of selling a home. Lower Upfront Costs Seattle's real estate market is notoriously expensive, making it difficult for many first-time homebuyers to afford a home. Renting a home requires a much lower upfront investment than buying, with only a security deposit and first month's rent typically required. This accessibility makes renting a viable option for those on a tight budget. Minimal Maintenance and Repairs As a renter, you're typically not responsible for major maintenance or repairs to your home, as these are the landlord's responsibility. This can save you money and time, as well as provide peace of mind. Access to Amenities Seattle is known for its vibrant and active lifestyle, with many opportunities for outdoor recreation and entertainment. Many rental properties offer access to amenities such as pools, gyms, and community spaces, which may be expensive or impractical for homeowners to install or maintain. This can provide renters with a convenient and affordable way to enjoy all that Seattle has to offer. No Hassle of Selling Selling a home can be a complicated and time-consuming process, particularly in a competitive real estate market like Seattle. As a renter, you're not responsible for the buying and selling process, which can save you time and money. This can be especially advantageous if you need to move quickly or unexpectedly. Reduced Financial Risk Owning a home comes with financial risks, such as fluctuations in the housing market, property taxes, and unexpected maintenance costs. Renting a home reduces these risks, as you're not responsible for the financial burdens associated with homeownership. This can provide renters with greater financial stability and security. No Need to Worry about Property Value Seattle's real estate market can be volatile, with property values fluctuating rapidly over time. As a renter, you're not affected by these fluctuations, as you're not invested in the property. This can provide renters with greater peace of mind and less stress related to the housing market. Buying vs renting a home in Seattle? When considering whether to buy or rent a home in Seattle, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of each option. Seattle's real estate market is notoriously expensive, making it a difficult market for many first-time homebuyers. However, there are advantages to both buying and renting, depending on your lifestyle and financial situation. Buying a home in Seattle can provide a sense of stability, ownership, and the potential for long-term financial gains. Homeownership also provides the opportunity to make the property your own, with the freedom to make renovations and upgrades. However, homeownership also comes with a range of financial responsibilities, including mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs. On the other hand, renting a home in Seattle provides flexibility, minimal financial responsibilities, and access to amenities that may be expensive or impractical for homeowners. Renting also provides greater mobility and the ability to take advantage of opportunities without the burden of selling a home. However, renters do not have the same financial benefits as homeowners, and must deal with the uncertainty of rental rates and the potential for rent increases. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Seattle depends on your individual preferences, lifestyle, and financial situation. It's important to carefully consider the pros and cons of each option, and to conduct thorough research on Seattle's real estate market to make an informed decision. Whether you choose to buy or rent, Seattle offers a dynamic and exciting lifestyle with endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, entertainment, and career growth. The professionals at Weisbarth and Associates are here to help you become part of that lifestyle. Contact us today to start the purchase of your new home .