Boston Condos: The Importance Of Home Inspections In 2021 (Funny Video) Boston Condos For Sale Ford Realty

Boston Real Estate

I’m often asked when buying a Boston condo for sale is it really necessary to pay for a home inspection? Now, I’ll answer this question in two ways. One is through a video (for those that don’t like reading) or the more lengthy answer. For those really short on time, the answer is yes. Because once you move in you may find out items may not be working as you hoped

Boston condo buyers are always encouraged to make a home inspection a condition of a purchase offer. While home inspections are advertised as a way to detect issues with major house systems like the foundation and roof, this doesn’t mean inspections aren’t relevant for condo buyers. Just as with single-family homes, Boston condos can have issues with the plumbing, HVAC system, and more. Here’s why a home inspection is a good idea when you’re buying a condo.

1. You’re Responsible for Condo Repairs

Many people enjoy condo living because it’s low maintenance. Your condo fees pay for maintenance and repairs to common elements of the property like the roof, amenities, and landscaping. However, your unit can still experience issues you’ll be responsible for. As a buyer, it’s important to understand the condition of the unit’s plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling systems. After all, if your bathtub or sink develops a major leak, replacing damaged hardwood floors could cost thousands of dollars.

2. You Should Understand the Building’s Overall Condition

Your condo unit isn’t a self-contained system. There will be other units above, below, and/or to either side of your condo. The unit above yours is especially important to consider. A home inspector can check for signs that something is going on upstairs, like evidence of moisture or leaks that may affect your unit.

3. You’ll Be Able to Tell If Any Condo Appliances Need to Be Replaced Soon

Make sure to get a thorough inspection of all major appliances. Your inspector will let you know whether the appliances are working, how old they are, if they have been recalled by the manufacturer, and how long they’re expected to last before they need to be replaced. This part of the inspection can ensure you aren’t buying a condo with a major appliance that will need to be replaced within the year.

4. You Can Discover Condo Fire Hazards

Fires can spread quickly in a condo, and not all fire hazards are obvious. An experienced home inspector will report any fire hazards found in the condo that should be corrected. Common fire hazards found in condos include:

Plastic dryer ducts
Extension cords on permanent appliances
Wiring defects
Improper smoke alarm placement or old smoke alarms
Aluminum wiring, which may be found in condos built or rewired between 1965 and 1972

5. You Can Get an Exterior Inspection

Most condo inspections are interior only, which does not include common areas like the roof and exterior. This type of inspection is good for a large tower condominium, but it’s not the only option. A full inspection will check the exterior of the building, parking lots, basements, common areas, and the roof if possible, which will give you a better idea of the overall condition of the condo building. The information you learn can be combined with the HOA disclosure, condo fees, and anticipated special assessments for a bigger picture of what you’re buying.

6. You’ll Have Leverage to Negotiate

The findings of your condo inspection won’t just help you make an informed decision. The report can also be used to negotiate repairs or a lower price for the condo. If the report turns up safety hazards, water damage, malfunctioning appliances, or improper repairs, you can request that the seller reduce the price, repair the issues, or provide funds for you to make the repairs.