Dear fellows, I am looking to buy an SFH in south bay. The usual drill. 4beds/3baths, 2 storied built in 1970-1990. Flat lot. These houses typically are in good conditions but there is always something in the disclosures like hairline fractures and gaps/holes in concrete foundation, plumbing that is not water-conservation ready etc. I am not sure what to make out of them. One house had a thin crack between kitchen and living room walls, apparently due to foundation movement.
Wondering if anyone has recommendation for someone trustworthy I can hire to do an inspection together with me. I am not looking for them to write a report or anything. just go through the disclosures and tell which ones are real, which ones are not.
Appreciate it!
Unfortunately I don’t know someone who does South Bay, but I might suggest maybe looking up home inspectors through Yelp. Yeah, I know the limitations of Yelp but worth a shot if no recommendations come forth. Another suggestion would be to have your GC or contractor friend look at the home. Another set of experienced eyes (from a construction perspective) is always welcomed. Good luck!
Thank you for suggestions and kind words!
NP. I am assuming you are using a RE agent to rep your interests? Yes, I know some folks think going with the listing agent (double dip) may be a strategic move but that is a gamble and really only for experienced buyers who know what to look for. Assuming you are using an experienced buyer agent, he/she should be able to assist you with the disclosures some. I agree, I would still want an independent inspection done though.
Yes, I am using an RE but want to get an independent inspector too. Thanks!
Something like plumbing not water-conservation ready is super vague… I would look for these: 1) Are electricals resonable up-to-date (say with ground wires, properly sized breakers, 200A, …) – if not budget for a meter upgrade / wiring upgrade, 2) look for copper plumbing, else budget some upgrade, 3) clay / cast iron sewers are trouble – unfortunately you may end up with one… settlement / trees can affect this, 4) if possible check the crawl space / attic – if the inspection report says evidence of rodent activity pay more attention (even if it is infested they wont say it), 5) houses do move and settle (at least initially) – you can find lots of resources online that can help identify structrual cracks of concern… 6) look for proper water drainage around the house, water getting into crawl space / foundation area is trouble, also vegetation close to house is trouble…
Hope this is helpful… Good luck with your purchase!
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