Know when to run! in Home Repair & Improvement http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r23298000 en Wed, 10 Feb 2010 01:01:41 EDT Wed, 10 Feb 2010 01:01:41 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315515 H2OuUp2 : 1. Realize that a home you have lived in and now are selling you begin to overlook problems that other buyers see.
2. Your home is a part of you and as such you assign a higher value many times based on emotions instead of facts.
3. People do want new at a used price. However many times you are not asking a new price.
4. New vs Used:
a. New well it’s new, and if you buy before construction is complete you can choose your colors.
b. Used: usually has extras like flower beds, shelves in the garage, added cabinets, blinds, curtains, etc. the owner has put in.
5. You can’t upgrade everything before you sell and get your money back. You’re going to get X amount of dollars per square foot and that’s it. Spend an extra 10K on the kitchen, you won’t get it back. All it will do is help the house sell faster. Put a new roof on for 20K. You won’t get a dime more for the house in most instances. New carpet for 5K. You won’t get any more money.

Again this will just help your house sell better. When you look at the price of homes around you they will look at whether or not items in the home are “serviceable”. Ugly green shag carpet? If it’s in good shape it doesn’t take away from the value of the home. If you spend 10K on new carpet you might get 2K extra during the sell.

One is better off just keeping things up and in good repair. If you want to upgrade or put something new in, do it because you want to do it, not because you are trying to sell it.

Now there are many things you will have to do to sell your home, and you might have to replace the carpet or roof, but there is a buyer for every home. As a buyer if I get a good enough deal I don’t mind spending 100K in repairs. If I am going to pay top dollar then I want everything near new.

There is so much to look at when buying a home, you really need to take your time. I like the idea of going by at all times of the day to see what’s going on. I like talking to the UPS guy and see how many packages come up missing in the neighborhood (no police report, but gives you an idea of the type of people). Many of the local TV stations have where you can check out the crime in a given area. Distance from work, school, traffic, future expansion (will they be building section 8 housing nearby?) Convince to hospitals, fire departments, grocery stores, banks, etc.

Story: We sold a two story 100 year old home on the lake. It was in great shape, but one of the upstairs windows had a crack. Where it was located really didn’t matter (a third story if you will room that was used for nothing and was very small.) We ended up giving them the money to fix it. Guess what? Seven years later and it’s still not fixed. They are selling the house now and wonder why the new buyer wants the window fixed, and they keep telling them it’s no big deal.
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He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315515 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:38:14 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315395 fcisler : Not everyone has disposable money....

I unfortunately (as I insinuated in the same post) had to also fix a dishwasher and dryer upon moving in. I tore up carpet in one room and installed a laminate floor. There's only two other rooms in the house (bedrooms) with carpet. Both of those cleaned out nicely.

I could have most likely got some $200 carpet and just had it installed...but I preferred to treat my friends to dinner and have it cleaned - and save that $200 towards nice carpet that I actually want.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315395 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:16:02 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315211 patcat88 :
said by habya See Profile :

.

I'm all for them practicing, but every day gets really annoying. Especially if you work a late shift, and try to get some sleep and start hearing *thud thud thud* at 9 in the morning.
Come by at night or on the weekend. How many homes have lights on? How many people on the street? Groups of youth roaming the streets after dark? Car alarms going off?

Also come in the early morning. You'll never know who has a rooster until its too late. Landscapers that start at 7AM with their leaf blowers are a problem too.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315211 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:35:38 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315166 patcat88 :
said by bkjohnson See Profile :

Does the water supply have a good recommendation?
I suggest taking a gallon of water home and tasting it. Some municipal water supplies are as chlorinated as a pool. I've visited relatives in an area with random spikes in chlorine in the water. Supposedly the chlorine is in legal limits according to the water company report. On the report the upper end of the chlorine range is 75% higher than New York City's water's upper chlorine range; NYC tap is considered excellent. With this town's water supply, sometimes my eyes tear if I put the water in a bowl and put my eyes near it, and/or I can smell the chlorine coming out of the faucet, or my hands turn crusty and white after washing my hands with the tap (I've never showered with the water in this town).

Do you really want to brita/bottle water/whole house filter you water for the rest of you owning that house?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315166 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:29:46 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315124 patcat88 :
said by Killa200 See Profile :

Before someone notes it, i should have been more specific with my "banned in branch circuits" comment. '05 code dictates its banned unless its anything but alloy aluminum.

310-14 Aluminum Conductor Material. Solid aluminum conductors 8, 10, and 12 AWG shall be made of an AA-8000 series electrical grade aluminum alloy conductor material.
Try finding those AL wire gauges. NEC might allow next generation 10 (20amp) /12 (15 amp) AL wire, but nobody makes it for USA market.

Smallest they have is 8 gauge. And its not technically romex.

»www.cable.alcan.com/alcancable/e···le+R.htm

Closest you will find to AL romex for branch circuits.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23315124 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:21:59 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23314887 patcat88 :
said by nonymous See Profile :

Why the heck should I put a like new guarantee and pay to fix up everything. if I did that I might as well stay here. Plus if I do that my price is going up. I need to put thousands in I will do that before I sell and raise the price. You are buying used at used price. You want a fricking new warranty go buy new.
I will not hide any problems but be real is it an older house not brand new. Why the heck should I pay to make it new. You want new then fix it up after purchasing it. All I will guarantee is the age of everything in the house. Roof newer than house. Heatpump installed on x date etc.
Why should I pay if the home inspector says I have old plumbing. You do not have to buy it. Or pay me what I want and install new yourself. I won't lock you into buying if you don't want too why should you be able to lock me into fixing everything up for like new you.
You want a repair buy it and do it yourself. if you do not now want to buy it do not. It may be getting so bad the buyers want the whole house torn down and a new one installed.
Demolish the house, advertise as ready for construction.

My neighborhood, 2 intersection radius, 3 occupied mcmansion, 3 finished vacant mcmansion, 5 unfinished mcmansions started in 2004-2006 and abandoned, 4 empty lots, and 12 old homes with for sale signs.

Apparently foreclosure, ARM resets, and the recession has nothing to do with real estate developers. 1 mcmansion conversion in 2008, 1 demoed now empty lot in september, 1 getting stripped and mcmansioned as of last week. Recession? What recession?

Demolish your house, the land is worth more than the house.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23314887 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:37:37 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23314361 dennismurphy :
said by Bobcat See Profile :

said by MsTerra See Profile :

When we were looking, there was one place from which we literally ran - years of water damage from a leaky roof combined with generations of live-in vermin gave the third floor of a single-family on a decent-sized lot (bargain-priced at $419K) such a hideous stench that we knew it was not worth considering. We later learned that the property had garnered multiple bids above ask and finally sold for $480K cash.
Around here, the buyer would tear it down and build a brand new house.
Right, then spend $300k putting up a house, and send the whole kit-n-kaboodle for $1.5m. Welcome to NJ.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23314361 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:01:27 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313997 MsTerra : Around here, if the house is old enough and in a historic district they may not be able to get a permit to do that. This place had "good bones," I would say, but it was absolutely a gut job. My guess is it was purchased to convert to condos, but as far as I know it hasn't gone back up on the market yet.
--
"Strive to change the world in such a way that there's no further need to be a dissident." Lawrence Ferlinghetti
Read my blog! The Joy of Jello Project]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313997 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:56:03 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313965 Bobcat :
said by MsTerra See Profile :

When we were looking, there was one place from which we literally ran - years of water damage from a leaky roof combined with generations of live-in vermin gave the third floor of a single-family on a decent-sized lot (bargain-priced at $419K) such a hideous stench that we knew it was not worth considering. We later learned that the property had garnered multiple bids above ask and finally sold for $480K cash.
Around here, the buyer would tear it down and build a brand new house.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313965 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:50:21 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313884 anon :
said by nevtxjustin See Profile :

Or any CAT5 cable spliced with wire nuts.
While there are some good ones out there like the OP that is all too common.
Another hint is they like to split pairs to find the red/green in cat 3 or cat 5.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313884 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:42:59 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313911 MsTerra :
said by bilbo4fun See Profile :

Check for nearby train tracks. Bought a nice place in the country. Closed on it and sitting on back deck heard the train. Never knew a train track was nearby.
The house I bought in June is maybe a quarter mile from a railroad crossing. I hear the train whistle at regular times daily, but it's far enough away that it's kind of a pleasant sound, and I like it. :)

That just goes to show how important the neighborhood is in the equation - and of course there's that expression that the three most important things in real estate are location, location, and location.

This is a really good thread, and I wish I had something I could add, but so far nothing has bitten us in the butt. When we were house-hunting, the main things we were looking out for were "flips" and recent work that might be covering up something. We were looking for an older home (the one we got is ~140 years old) and were prepared for the imperfections ("character") that come with this type of property.

IMHO, "what to run away from" is highly subjective. The important thing is to understand how your resources, aptitude and ambition match up with properties. A "run, don't walk" property to a busy professional might be a great deal for someone who's handy and enjoys working around the house. When we were looking, there was one place from which we literally ran - years of water damage from a leaky roof combined with generations of live-in vermin gave the third floor of a single-family on a decent-sized lot (bargain-priced at $419K) such a hideous stench that we knew it was not worth considering. We later learned that the property had garnered multiple bids above ask and finally sold for $480K cash.
--
"Strive to change the world in such a way that there's no further need to be a dissident." Lawrence Ferlinghetti
Read my blog! The Joy of Jello Project]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313911 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:41:45 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313676 netboy34 :
said by nevtxjustin See Profile :

said by xbell :

10. Any sign that an electrician has attempted any of the communication wiring in the home. :p
Or any CAT5 cable spliced with wire nuts.
And for that reason alone I redid all the communication wiring in my home.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23313676 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:53:20 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23312980 nevtxjustin :
said by xbell :

10. Any sign that an electrician has attempted any of the communication wiring in the home. :p
Or any CAT5 cable spliced with wire nuts.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23312980 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:09:50 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23312918 kieranmullen : If it was that bad why not just replace the carpet? Carpet is usually the first things to be replaced. When someone is selling a house they usually buy the cheap stuff that doesnt wear well. Also I never understood the concept of carpet in the eating areas and hallways.

We keep our carpets clean, take shoes off at front door (something my wife never did but my mother always taught us to do.) and plan to have it professionally cleaned every few years. After it is done for we will replace with hardwood floors.

said by fcisler See Profile
Filthy! My house was DISGUSTING! I happened to have several friends in damage restoration, though....but it was hell to clean. He said it was on his top 10 list of dirtiest carpets he's ever cleaned.
[/BQUOTE :

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KieranMullen »360oregon.com
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23312918 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:25:13 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23310702 anon : True.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23310702 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 16:20:20 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23309733 morbo :
said by quatrix See Profile :

My wife has been watching a lot of HGTV, and half the time when someone walks into a potential new home they say "oh, we definitely have to redo this carpet/tile/paint/whatever". When did everyone become so stuck-up and wasteful?
so true. it's almost hilarious, especially when the conversation comes to "i like granite but not this granite. may have to replace" and the like.

it has to do with entitlement. people think they must have and deserve whatever it is they want. short-term thinking vs long term. now zoom out: credit crunch, housing bubble, debt crisis. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23309733 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 11:23:01 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23309009 KrK : Can I get an Amen. This happened to me. Fresh drywall. Fresh paint in places. New Paneling. Drylock all over the floor.

It practically screams "covering up" now that I think about it. They were clever though. They put down rugs. They put computers and electronics in the basement, chairs, etc.

Can you say "staged". Because there's no way that stuff actually lived down there considering the way water runs in!
--
"Fascism should more properly be called corporatism because it is the merger of state and corporate power." -- Benito Mussolini
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23309009 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 03:04:56 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23307296 scooper : +1 - Terrestrial broadband is my #2 priority (right after no HOA). Line of sight for DBS is fairly high for me as well.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23307296 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:46:01 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23305105 anon :
said by nunya See Profile :

9) Broadband.
Good one. Several times when hooking up a second phone line for dial up customers advise they never would have bought if they knew broadband was not available.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23305105 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 02:06:19 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23305039 Loco : R-U-N !]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23305039 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 01:06:34 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23305036 JimmySask : Anything that looks like recent work, take a closer look. Our experiences in house hunting suggest that a lot of what we saw was done to cover something. For example - Fresh drywall in the basement, covering large cracks in a cinder block foundation, which were actually visible from outside. Example #2: Completely refinished basement. Paying attention while walking on the floor, I could find the cracks from the heaved concrete.

Walls bowed inward for any reason. Telltale sign to look closer at structure.

Check circuit breaker loading in key areas. For example - if you turn one off, how many plugs actually go out in the kitchen? We discovered after the fact that our fridge and all available kitchen plugs are on one circuit. Not happy about it, but thankfully will be an easy fix in my home. With the high draw devices in the kitchen, you could end up forever popping breakers.

Check your water pressure. Single shower on - happy? Now try running the kitchen sink, and a bathroom sink? Does the pressure drop drastically?

If it gets to the point of wanting to buy, more investigation is warranted. Take a page from Mike Holmes - check for permits for any recent work, to suggest if it was actually inspected.
--
I do whatever my Rice Krispies tell me too....]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23305036 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 01:03:43 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304861 slyphoxj :
said by bilbo4fun See Profile :

Check for nearby train tracks. Bought a nice place in the country. Closed on it and sitting on back deck heard the train. Never knew a train track was nearby.
I can deal with trains as long as they don't blow their horns. The last place I lived at was maybe only 200-300 feet from a busy railroad. Before my city implemented "quiet zones" (meaning that the engineer is not allowed to blow the horn when going through an area designated as a "quiet zone"), the train horn would drown out the TV sound when I left my front door open.

But the train noise wasn't too bad after the quiet zones went into effect earlier this year.

EDIT: Corrected grammar error.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304861 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 23:54:03 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304820 slyphoxj : - Federal Pacific Stab-Lok breaker panels. They're bad news- do a Google search to find out why. If the home you're looking at has one of these, get it replaced. It's gotta go. Even if you are dead set on leaving it be, you might not be able to get replacement breakers. My dad's 1976 mobile home has one of these :huh:.

- Knob-and-tube wiring. You might have trouble getting and/or keeping your homeowner's insurance if the home has any of this old-fashioned wiring anywhere. But at least K&T is copper :). K&T wiring usually has no ground conductor- surge protectors won't do their job properly if you get an electrical surge. K&T wiring is usually found in home built prior to the 60's (at least here in the Cleveland, OH area anyways).

- When looking at an older (pre-70's) home that has a breaker panel, open (or have an electrician or home inspector open) the breaker panel to make sure that the service wires coming in are rated for 100 amp service or better. I have an electrician coming out Tuesday to replace with 100 amp wires the 60 amp service wires going into my breaker panel.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304820 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 23:38:44 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304693 i1me2ao : till his ex wife moves in neighborhood.. :D]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304693 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:58:00 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304692 ttiiggy : The trains don't bother me unless I am out that side of the house and an energetic engineer is laying on the horns.
I don't hardly notice them at all if I am in the house.
The tracks are ~600 away. Just get used to it. :D]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304692 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:57:18 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304612 bilbo4fun : Check for nearby train tracks. Bought a nice place in the country. Closed on it and sitting on back deck heard the train. Never knew a train track was nearby.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304612 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:32:09 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304602 nunya : 9) Broadband. If it is important to you, and you don't want to deal with satellite, make damn sure that BB service is available. Look at how many people come to this site and complain that they can't get Cable or DSL service at their new McMansion (which was Farmer Brown's back 40 six months ago). Check before you put that earnest money down.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304602 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:28:04 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304562 KrK : xx) Home warranties aren't really worth a flip.

They sound good when the seller mentions the home has a warranty, but the reality is the Warranty companies make actually claiming against the warranty (especially if it's a big repair) a real PITA or flat out deny to pay the repairs.

xx.2) French drains and the like. Find out from the seller where they are. Where they go. AND IF THEY WORK! Oh and ask the seller where your main water shut off is. :D

--
"Fascism should more properly be called corporatism because it is the merger of state and corporate power." -- Benito Mussolini
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304562 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:14:52 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304522 KrK :
said by Waterbug See Profile :

said by horsemouth See Profile :

You may want to ask your lawyer next time.
The inspector did not "lie" in his report. He made statements that were open to interpretation. Unfortunately, we didn't read between the lines. I think he was smart enough to skirt legal liability.
That's the thing about home inspectors. They aren't liable for anything. Max liability is the amount of the fee. So if you paid him $300 and he screwed up badly, congrats, you can get your $300 back.
--
"Fascism should more properly be called corporatism because it is the merger of state and corporate power." -- Benito Mussolini
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304522 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:03:22 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304507 KrK : Good tips. I got semi-burned on this deal by the sellers. Not burned too badly but they definitely knew about problems and issues, covered them up, didn't disclose them and sold it as-is. Still I like the place and have no plans to move in the future unless situations change.

If I do it again, I'll ask a lot more questions, make sure the answers are documented, and if they lie, I'll burn them with their own deceit.
--
"Fascism should more properly be called corporatism because it is the merger of state and corporate power." -- Benito Mussolini
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304507 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:00:04 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304167 tschmidt :
said by aeblank See Profile :

Like what?!
Wood stove controller
TV/FM antenna
Weather station
Bathroom fan control/timer
Dialup modem phone line adapter (no longer being used)
Remote control shed lights
Telephone/Alarm/Network wiring and cross-connect

I've documented some of this stuff on my site:
»www.tschmidt.com/writings.htm

/tom]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304167 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:27:38 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304151 Daarken : Make sure you do not have large trees that have grown near the house. Sure they offer shade, but if they are susceptible to termites and other insects that can weaken the tree it could end up on your home and cause massive damage.
Also tree roots can cause damage to your foundation.
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Getting it Done.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23304151 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:20:55 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303762 anon : Then there is also the nuke plant in my back yard(seabrook), but I knew that when I bought the place.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303762 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:00:15 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303612 i1me2ao : that is a good point i recall daddy laying down in street gauging elevation. sure enough that one in a million flood came and 20 or so houses around did not flood as the rest of street did.
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calling a illegal alien undocumented is like calling a drug dealer a undocumented pharmacist]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303612 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:09:51 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303495 Loco : RUN]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303495 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:42:33 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303415 avd706 : Careful with a home inspection, better than nothing, but just not foolproof.

School districts affect future selling price so always check the schools even if you don't have kids (yet.)

Make sure you are above the 100 year flood, and you won't be cut off from the rest of civilization even if you stay dry during the flood.
--
standard disclaimers apply.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303415 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:25:35 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303241 Warzau :
said by PhoenixDown See Profile :

Zombies... definitely zombies!
In the basement particularly.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303241 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:44:49 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303187 Bobcat : It's no joke, it's a genuine real estate listing. Although maybe it's standard for a hunting cabin in Alaska.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23303187 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:31:30 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302826 i1me2ao : i know you are joking but the house down the street looked liked that. it was 70k cheaper and we were thinking upsize but after looking at we realized it cost twice that to redo it. it was coated in paint in tile but house had not been maintained hence the cheaper cost..
--
calling a illegal alien undocumented is like calling a drug dealer a undocumented pharmacist]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302826 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:16:06 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302704 aeblank :
said by tschmidt See Profile :

Being an engineer I've designed some purpose gear for our home.
Like what?!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302704 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:54:24 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302703 Bobcat :

If the bathroom looks like this (and the asking price is $125k!), run.

More here - »lovelylisting.com]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302703 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:54:10 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302667 netboy34 : I know I wasn't... I actually got more room than my parents :p this market is great for those that have been saving and used this oppotunity to get a good deal. Got my house close to 60K cheaper than when it first went on the market two years ago, and I also got a killer interest rate.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302667 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:49:10 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302656 Killa200 : eh, not all are that way... but i know where you are coming from there.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302656 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:47:21 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302649 i1me2ao : i hate first time home buyers. they are getting smacked with reality and not realizing there first house is not going to look like mom and dad who have had there house for 40 years...
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calling a illegal alien undocumented is like calling a drug dealer a undocumented pharmacist]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302649 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:46:29 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302635 netboy34 : My realtor recommended a couple, went with the more expensive one because he could be out there that same weekend. (FHA changed from 30 day to 45 day period for their inspector, which moved our timeline up) Guy ended up spending close to three hours (hour per floor basement/attic = hour) best $400 I ever spent.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302635 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:43:34 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302611 habya : Great information guys :). Won't be buying for about another 3-4 years but want to get a head start learning the stuff and what needs to be done.

We currently rent a house, and just from that I'm going to make the neighborhood priority number one. When we first moved in here it was nice, quiet, many retired older folks, and was a great neighborhood. This year it has gotten worse and worse. We've got the ghetto creep (spread of low-rent housing and welfare) coming up one of the streets. We also had the 2 houses across from us rented out by some young guys (all around 20). BOTH of them have bands and play the drums. It's literally drumming from about 9:00am until 2:00pm then a small break. Then again from 4:00pm - 10:30pm just about every single day....it's about to drive us nuts. If one group is playing, the other is.

I'm all for them practicing, but every day gets really annoying. Especially if you work a late shift, and try to get some sleep and start hearing *thud thud thud* at 9 in the morning.

Quick question about inspectors. How would you all recommend finding one? Nobody I know have bought a house in years. They all rent or live in an apartment. Do you rely on word of mouth recommendations, phone book, realtor recommendation (some seem to not want this)? Any good questions you should ask them before hiring them, specific licenses or knowledge etc?
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HABYA HABYA HABYA TEAR DOWN THE HEMP STALKS EAT UP THE OLD MAN AND WOMAN AND CARRY OFF THE LITTLE GIRL MAY YOU DIE ALONE]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302611 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:39:21 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302301 netboy34 :
said by Lazlow See Profile :

The words floodplain. Even if there has been no water there in thirty years, it will require a extra insurance rider on the mortgage. Then there is always the once a century flood that shows up (see St. Louis 2008 and the 100 or so condemned houses).
Or in north metro area of Atlanta. I work for a school system and we had an elementary school on a 500 year plain, water to the roof... as the water went down, you could see drop ceiling tiles float away. about 250 houses around it are ruined, one flooded to just above the first floor, and the second floor caught fire and burned to the water line. Where I live was on a 500 yr plain but fortunate for me the area has great drainage to a lake that was pretty low (not anymore though)

Things I've found since buying my house this past May as a first time buyer:

1) If you have an unfinished basement that is insulated, take some of it down and see if the foam board on the outside is continuous. Mine had major gaps that I had to fill allowing heat, moisture and bugs through.

2) Be prepared for connection fees. You may not have to put a deposit down, but they don't tell you about the 30, 60 etc. dollar connect fee.

3) Gift cards to Home depot, lowes, etc. are like gold. Use them wisely

4) Rustoleum Universal made a brass light oil bronsed :)

5) If you are a techie like me (who isn't here right?) and the existing communication wiring is substandard. If you have to open walls, do it before you paint. If you have the funds (remember the gift cards?) use some sort of flex conduit to make sure you only have to open the walls once.

6) Get a good set of air filters for the first couple months. You will be kicking up dust and it can get bad fast. Filters will help you from sneezing when you are moving that couch up the stairs.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302301 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:46:45 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302287 fcisler : Neighbor DOGS! I don't want to live next to someone who has a yippy dog that is barking all hours of the night next door to me. Both my neighbors have dogs and I have nothing against them. I just don't want an obnoxious attack dog or ankle biter staring me down every time I grab the mail.

If it has a dishwasher MAKE SURE IT RUNS A FULL CYCLE! Mine "ran"...it just never stopped!

Dryer - same deal. Mine "ran" - it just didn't DRY.

I'd also look at the heating system and see if it has a repair log/record on it. Mine hadn't been serviced in YEARS and required almost a full rebuild. Under $250 for me to do it, well over $600 for someone to come in and do it.

Outside/Buried oil tank. EPA will come down hard on you if there is ever a leak. Around here they require a disclosure statement that there was never one outside/buried.

AC. Central AC is nice but has it been maintained? Is it as old as the dinosaurs? Mine had a AC through to the garage (moisture problems!) and unfortunately there's no where else to put one through wall.

In ground pool. Maintenance and TAXES could kill you if you don't want one or want to maintain it. Also a b*tch to remove if in ground.

Filthy! My house was DISGUSTING! I happened to have several friends in damage restoration, though....but it was hell to clean. He said it was on his top 10 list of dirtiest carpets he's ever cleaned.

Not all deal breakers or "run away screaming" but a couple of issues I ran into/missed.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302287 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:44:22 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302268 jmkraft :
said by bent See Profile :

Well, if I'm paying full market value for a house, it better be in pretty damn near new condition.
The thing is - the "full market value" or "appraised value" of the house is the value of the house in it's current condition, not the vallue of the house if it was like-new.
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Free men do not ask permission to bear arms.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302268 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:40:01 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302057 Jon :
said by scooper See Profile :

Blanket off the cuff remarks just to draw a reaction will not win you any points with me. Serious discussion will be treated appropriately. You come combatative at me - you're going to get that and worse from me.
You didn't get that specific in your other post. If it's a reasonable request, then you should be negotiable. If you have 20 years left on your roof then yes, that's not reasonable. If you only have a year or two left as the inspector said, then it's not reasonable to raise your price to cover replacement.

I wasn't being combative or trying to get a reaction. The way you phrased it was ridiculous. So no need to go all Internet tough guy on me.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23302057 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:08:24 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301929 jrs8084 : Sickly/poorly placed/poorly maintained trees. Sure, a Willow looks great down by the creek, but not next to your house or over the septic tank.

And that Oak looks so stately-too bad it is being eaten from the inside out.

Don't get me wrong-I love trees. But, they don't stay up forever. So consider the quality/health/cost of maintenance when considering a property. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301929 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:53:06 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301872 Lazlow : Jon

The people that I specifically mentioned (above) had not seen serious water issues in over thirty years either, but then 2008 came along. After the houses were condemned (mold) they were forced to bring the entire house up to current codes (electrical, etc) instead of being grandfathered in. A significant portion of them could not afford to strip out everything(plumbing, electrical, etc) and replace it. So now those houses are just sitting and most of their owners have just moved on.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301872 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:44:53 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301855 scooper :
said by Jon See Profile :

said by scooper See Profile :

If YOUR inspector said my house will need a new roof in a couple years , and you say "I want a new roof" - I just raised the price of my house by $10,000 (the price of a new roof) (I have A LARGE amount of roof).

Similarly for anything else - if what's there right now is working fine, and you're asking for new - you just raised the price by the cost of the replacement item. If this is not acceptable to you - then we will not be making a deal.
The appraisal you get before you put it on the market should account for that stuff.

People don't want to buy a house they immediately have to dump 5, 10 or 20k into. So you're gonna take a house that already needs major repairs and raise the price because of it? Yeah, good luck with that. I'll sell you my car for blue book. But if you actually want it to have a transmission, it's gonna cost you double. :huh:

When we bought our current house, we got the seller to throw in a small credit because it needed a new furnace. Probably would have bought it anyway but it's the just the right thing to do.
The attitude has alot to do with it . If he is saying that just to get a new roof - I don't think so. OTOH - if the roof was less than 10 years (that's mine), and he came with that remark (we used 30 year shingles) - again - I don't think so. If he wants to negotiate about it - he'd better have a real reason. I'll be stacking up MY home inspectors report to his on requests / requirements like this. I KNOW my house needs new floors - heck, I'VE been wanting new floors since I moved in - that's something I'd be a bit more serious about.

Blanket off the cuff remarks just to draw a reaction will not win you any points with me. Serious discussion will be treated appropriately. You come combatative at me - you're going to get that and worse from me.

True story from my past - we were selling a condo in Northern Virgina (the first place we owned). The buyer had a home inspector come through, and there was this remark about "some paint on trim was "rough" , please fix" . No clue about where this "rough paint" was, and what it looked like. I told them I didn't see what they were talking about. Later - I did find it - about a 6 inch strip that about 5 minutes of sanding took care of. It was all in the presentation.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301855 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:40:54 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301816 Jon :
said by Killa200 See Profile :

Some facts... like its banned for use in anything besides service entrance or large load appliance situations due to safety concerns?
Okay. Like I said, I've never seen it, but I'm not an electrician. Just think some of the statements are a little broad.

said by Lazlow See Profile :

The words floodplain. Even if there has been no water there in thirty years, it will require a extra insurance rider on the mortgage. Then there is always the once a century flood that shows up (see St. Louis 2008 and the 100 or so condemned houses).
My brothers house is in a floodplain (few hundred feet from a river). And yes, he knew that before he bought it. Probably had some water at some point in the 60 years since it was built. Seems fine though. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301816 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:34:12 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301715 Jeffrey :
said by nunya See Profile :

I'll plant my seeds of wisdom.
Great idea for a thread. I've been a homeowner for a year (well it will be a year on 11/12), and this is a nice thread idea.

said by nunya See Profile :

4) Crappy neighbors. That 1980 Granada and pile of tires in the neighbors back yard is not going to magically disappear when you close on the property.
This is a biggie that is sometimes overlooked. My wife and I looked for 2 and a half years before buying our home. Most of the time it just wasn't what we wanted, and a few times when we found a place that had a lot "right" with it, the neighbors were something less than desired. (On houses we liked, we'd take drive-bys at all hours and days. I'd take drive on weekdays, weeknights, weekend, Saturday nights, middle of the night, etc. Just to get an idea of what was going on.)

Did the same thing for the place we bought, and aside from the guy 1/2 an acre over with a loud dog on occasion, the neighbors are neat and quiet. The only thng I could have asked for was eye candy on the block (besides my wife), but can't have it all, can I. :)

said by nunya See Profile :

5) Always have a home inspection. An inspector is never going to say "don't buy this house". Read between the lines of the report.
Some of the best advice, I believe. Some of the best $600 I ever spent was about this time a year ago when an engineer came and for 90 mins, checked every nook and cranny of the house. He sat down with me after the inspection, and said (without being biased one way or the other), "This is a good house", and then began to explain the expected items you'd see out of a well-maintained 27 year old house. Nothing structural at all, which was a biggie for me. Roof is good, basement is good and water-free. AC works well even though it's an older CAC system.

I was so impressed with the information I received the next day via e-mail (like a 50 page report abut every aspect of the house w/ photos), that in another 5-10 years I'm thinking about just hiring them to come back and do a report then. Not because we'd be selling, but just to get an idea of what might need our attention at that time.
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"Honesty may be the best policy, but it's important to remember that apparently, by elimination, dishonesty is the second-best policy." - George Carlin]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301715 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:15:11 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301694 tschmidt : Some comments on your list:

1) Here in NH is it not uncommon to have running water in old field stone basements. Not a problem unless you don't know about it.

2) Only applies to branch circuits. Utility and service entrance cable in most cases will be aluminum.

To add to the list:
1) Neighborhood and area. It is getting better, or getting worse.

2) Commuting distance to jobs.

3) If you have kids check out local schools

4) Property taxes.

5) Town administration. Some towns exert a lot of pressure on home owners. Building permits for even minor work. "Grass police" etc. The more rural you are the less intrusive government tends to be.

6) Flood, hurricane risk.

7) Chinese Drywall disaster.

8) Water and sewer vs well and septic. There are pros and cons of each. If you have well and septic find out where well, septic tank and leach field are and how often septic tank has been pumped. If possible get design documents for septic system.

9) Get documentation for any special features and user manuals for appliances. Being an engineer I've designed some purpose gear for our home. I'm going to have to leave documentation for new owners if and when we sell the home.

10) Has property been surveyed recently? If so get plot plan.

/tom]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301694 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:08:43 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301647 jeffhambone :
said by Waterbug See Profile :

(snip) Even though we were paying his fee, he was reluctant to say something was bad, because if he did and we backed out of the sale, no Realtor would recommend his services.
Excellent point. I would not say never to use the inspector your agent recommends -- just realize there may be a subtle conflict of interest present if you do so.

I had an agent get annoyed with me because I wouldn't use the inspector she recommended, and the guy I did use found some hidden problems that prompted us to back out of the deal.
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Sarcasm is the Body's Natural Defense Against Stupidity]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301647 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:58:13 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301623 Toadman : I don't know anyone in this market, except new construction, that would offer a guarantee on their used home. Every home sale is as-is. That is why so many, including myself, encourage buying or offering a home warranty through a 3rd party company. It encourages the sale of the home and as a new buyer, it takes care of that 20 yr old hot water tank that just sprung a leak.

It is some suggestions but keep in mind, each market is different, and each location is different. You can't spend $80,000 and expect the palace.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301623 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:55:05 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301568 quatrix :
said by nonymous See Profile :

Buyers are tending towards not nice people and when buying an older house then want everything just like new. You have a 6 year old heatpump not good enough we want new. The plumbing is 15 years old give us new. We are buying used and want eevrything new.
My wife has been watching a lot of HGTV, and half the time when someone walks into a potential new home they say "oh, we definitely have to redo this carpet/tile/paint/whatever". When did everyone become so stuck-up and wasteful? If the floor was good enough for the previous owner, it's good enough for you.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301568 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:46:40 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301547 Lazlow : The words floodplain. Even if there has been no water there in thirty years, it will require a extra insurance rider on the mortgage. Then there is always the once a century flood that shows up (see St. Louis 2008 and the 100 or so condemned houses).]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301547 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:42:19 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301479 bkjohnson : Some other things to think about-
Ongoing fees besides property taxes - are there fire dues, garbage pickup fees, library assessments, etc.? Is the house sewer or septic tank. If septic tank and sewer is available do you have to pay a sewer fee even if not connected? What about availability of high speed internet? Does the water supply have a good recommendation? What about schools? (Important for resale even if you have no students)
Edit - Is there good fire protection, & nearby hydrants? What about fire dues? Is the property in a flood plain?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301479 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:27:59 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301466 Killa200 : Before someone notes it, i should have been more specific with my "banned in branch circuits" comment. '05 code dictates its banned unless its anything but alloy aluminum.

310-14 Aluminum Conductor Material. Solid aluminum conductors 8, 10, and 12 AWG shall be made of an AA-8000 series electrical grade aluminum alloy conductor material. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301466 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:27:04 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301445 Loco : Just run, baby !]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301445 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:24:18 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301396 Matt :
said by nunya See Profile :

Well. It was a good idea anyway.
No kidding. I'm going to be buying a property soon and I was like, "Man, what an awesome thread!" I didn't know to look for a single thing in your list. I hope the thread gets back on track.
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trafficcloak.com - pptp/sstp vpn services]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301396 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:16:29 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301393 Killa200 :
said by Jon See Profile :

said by mattmag See Profile :

said by nunya See Profile :

Well. It was a good idea anyway.
Yes it was.

Too bad folks don't actually read what you posted, and instead ruin a potentially useful thread of information... :huh:
It needs to be based more on fact than opinion though.

Just because he doesn't like aluminum wire, doesn't mean there aren't others out out there that swear by it. They don't use it around here so I've had no experience with it. But don't just say it's bad. Why? post some facts that shows why it's worse than copper.
Some facts... like its banned for use in anything besides service entrance or large load appliance situations due to safety concerns?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301393 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:16:25 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301339 Jon :
said by mattmag See Profile :

said by nunya See Profile :

Well. It was a good idea anyway.
Yes it was.

Too bad folks don't actually read what you posted, and instead ruin a potentially useful thread of information... :huh:
It needs to be based more on fact than opinion though.

Just because he doesn't like aluminum wire, doesn't mean there aren't others out out there that swear by it. They don't use it around here so I've had no experience with it. But don't just say it's bad. Why? post some facts that shows why it's worse than copper.

Water? I think you'd be hard pressed to find a house with a basement that hasn't gotten water at some point. Especially if it's a 40 or 50+ year old house. Sump pumps fail, power goes out etc... No one will ever disclose it anyway, I don't care what the law is. We get water when we get really heavy rain in a short period. It's in an unfinished, concrete laundry room. It doesn't do really any damage.

"An inspector is never going to say "don't buy this house""
I totally disagree with this statement. The inspector we've used many times in the passed has said to us, "I wouldn't buy it". We walked away.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301339 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:07:40 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301271 mattmag :
said by nunya See Profile :

Well. It was a good idea anyway.
Yes it was.

Too bad folks don't actually read what you posted, and instead ruin a potentially useful thread of information... :huh:]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301271 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:54:14 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301246 Jon :
said by scooper See Profile :

If YOUR inspector said my house will need a new roof in a couple years , and you say "I want a new roof" - I just raised the price of my house by $10,000 (the price of a new roof) (I have A LARGE amount of roof).

Similarly for anything else - if what's there right now is working fine, and you're asking for new - you just raised the price by the cost of the replacement item. If this is not acceptable to you - then we will not be making a deal.
The appraisal you get before you put it on the market should account for that stuff.

People don't want to buy a house they immediately have to dump 5, 10 or 20k into. So you're gonna take a house that already needs major repairs and raise the price because of it? Yeah, good luck with that. I'll sell you my car for blue book. But if you actually want it to have a transmission, it's gonna cost you double. :huh:

When we bought our current house, we got the seller to throw in a small credit because it needed a new furnace. Probably would have bought it anyway but it's the just the right thing to do.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23301246 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:51:36 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23300927 Eat Me : A couple more:

- Underground oil tanks. Especially in this state. The cleanup costs thousands if they leak. Underground gas tanks are fine.

- Major septic tank problems (if the house has a septic tank). We backed out of a house because the septic tank had a big leak. No regrets.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23300927 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:54:36 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23300457 cdru : I guess I'm going to be screwed trying to do my first flip of a home with a wet basement that uses Al wiring with the Beverly Hillbillies living next door and a Nazi HOA. I fixed everything the buyers wanted that I could find on clearance and the inspector sure appeared surprised. He said that he had never seen a home like this...I'm pretty sure that was a good thing. I just hope they don't test for for lead paint, asbestos tiles, leaky buried oil tank, or the plugged leech field for the septic tank. I marked down on the disclosure that it was all good...]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23300457 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:00:16 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23300366 bent : Back to my original point. Good luck selling your money pit.
:D
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Greedy Old Pigs]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23300366 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 07:32:36 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23300209 nunya : Well. It was a good idea anyway.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23300209 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 05:55:39 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299916 PhoenixDown : Zombies... definitely zombies!
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~ Insert a Funny Sig Here ~]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299916 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 01:32:46 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299732 Daarken : "being bonded & insured" does not make you a good contractor whatsoever.
I have seen so many "being bonded & insured" electrical contractors that are worth the toilet paper I flush more then I can count.
As a special systems designer we give those special "being bonded & insured" contractors special "oh shit not him" pricing.
Personally from seeing the quality of Nunya's posts and responses I would be honored to subcontract under him.
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Getting it Done.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299732 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 23:57:34 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299441 telworker :
said by gregz See Profile :

I am sorry, but being bonded & insured, and the fact, that an Electrician can do a 100% better job, then a typical home owner.
Not what I see on a daily basis. I wouldn't let an electrician wire up a network, coax or voice system in a home or business any more than I would let my GP operate on me.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299441 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:51:45 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299393 anon :
said by gregz See Profile :

I am sorry, but being bonded & insured,
and communication firms aren't or I guess I'm the only one
and the fact, that an Electrician can do a 100% better job, then a typical home owner.
not all home owners from what I've seen....and not even close to a communication guy]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299393 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:40:24 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299345 gregz :
said by xbell :

10. Any sign that an electrician has attempted any of the communication wiring in the home. :p
I am sorry, but being bonded & insured, and the fact, that an Electrician can do a 100% better job, then a typical home owner.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299345 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:27:35 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299309 anon : 10. Any sign that an electrician has attempted any of the communication wiring in the home. :p]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299309 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:20:50 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299076 horsemouth :
said by Waterbug See Profile :

said by horsemouth See Profile :

You may want to ask your lawyer next time.
The inspector did not "lie" in his report. He made statements that were open to interpretation. Unfortunately, we didn't read between the lines. I think he was smart enough to skirt legal liability.
That is kinda what I understood.
What I was trying to say is that a lawyer recommended inspector is worth more than a real estate one. [In my market]]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299076 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:39:02 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299037 Waterbug :
said by horsemouth See Profile :

You may want to ask your lawyer next time.
The inspector did not "lie" in his report. He made statements that were open to interpretation. Unfortunately, we didn't read between the lines. I think he was smart enough to skirt legal liability.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299037 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:33:11 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299006 horsemouth : You may want to ask your lawyer next time.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23299006 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:28:14 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298983 scooper : If YOUR inspector said my house will need a new roof in a couple years , and you say "I want a new roof" - I just raised the price of my house by $10,000 (the price of a new roof) (I have A LARGE amount of roof).

Similarly for anything else - if what's there right now is working fine, and you're asking for new - you just raised the price by the cost of the replacement item. If this is not acceptable to you - then we will not be making a deal.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298983 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:24:57 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298964 Waterbug : We bought an 80 year old house because my wife wanted a "historic" home. We had a buyers home inspection, and the inspector classified a lot of items as "typical for age". Big warning there, that we ignored. Very few things are meant to last 80 years, so "typical for age" was his way of saying "potential problem". Even though we were paying his fee, he was reluctant to say something was bad, because if he did and we backed out of the sale, no Realtor would recommend his services.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298964 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:23:08 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298867 bent :
said by scooper See Profile :

It's not necessarily a money pit - it's just not new.

All he is saying is if you're buying a "not new house" - don't expect "everything like new".
Well, if I'm paying full market value for a house, it better be in pretty damn near new condition. If my inspector says "gonna need a new roof in a couple years," guess what? Seller is going to do one of the following: a. Put a new roof using a licensed contractor that offers a transferable warranty, b. Drop the price by the cost of a new roof, or c. Find another dumber buyer.

There's a TON of sellers out there who think their under-maintained out-of-date home is worth full market value. I guess there's buyers out there that will buy those houses, but not many...
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Greedy Old Pigs]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298867 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:05:12 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298861 horsemouth : Good list.
The one I shake my head at is #2 every time I say Aluminum wire is bad people have 101 reasons why it is ok.
In my neighbourhood
9]Lead water lines and paint [some houses are 200 years old]
10]asbestos]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298861 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:03:12 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298126 scooper : It's not necessarily a money pit - it's just not new.

All he is saying is if you're buying a "not new house" - don't expect "everything like new".]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298126 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:21:59 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298109 bent : Good luck selling your money pit in this market ;)
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Greedy Old Pigs]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298109 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:19:30 EDT Re: Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298067 nonymous : 1) Depends on how much you like the house and where it is coming from. May be an easy enough fix. Some water tables just are that high.
2) Aluminum is fine as long as the correct parts are used and it is checked every so often. Bad installs or using copper parts on aluminum is a problem .
8)7) When I sell my house I am tempted to go as is. Buyers are tending towards not nice people and when buying an older house then want everything just like new. You have a 6 year old heatpump not good enough we want new. The plumbing is 15 years old give us new. We are buying used and want eevrything new. My house is just fine but I can not guarantee a pipe will not leak next month it is used not brand new from a builder. Why the heck should I put a like new guarantee and pay to fix up everything. if I did that I might as well stay here. Plus if I do that my price is going up. I need to put thousands in I will do that before I sell and raise the price. You are buying used at used price. You want a fricking new warranty go buy new.
I will not hide any problems but be real is it an older house not brand new. Why the heck should I pay to make it new. You want new then fix it up after purchasing it. All I will guarantee is the age of everything in the house. Roof newer than house. Heatpump installed on x date etc.
Why should I pay if the home inspector says I have old plumbing. You do not have to buy it. Or pay me what I want and install new yourself. I won't lock you into buying if you don't want too why should you be able to lock me into fixing everything up for like new you.
You want a repair buy it and do it yourself. if you do not now want to buy it do not. It may be getting so bad the buyers want the whole house torn down and a new one installed. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298067 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:07:55 EDT Know when to run! http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298000 nunya : I've seen a lot of questions from first time buyers on here. I thought I would start a thread asking current homeowners and pros to post their advice on what to run away from. Please share your wisdom with the "yoots".

I'll plant my seeds of wisdom.

1) Water in the basement (or anywhere else it shouldn't be). Run.
2) Aluminum wire - I DO NOT give a rats ass if you haven't had any problems in the last 30 years. Run.
3) "Flip" houses: These are often done by amateurs trying to make a quick buck. These are also done by professionals trying to turn a quick buck. Their goal is to "sugar coat" the house without spending a lot of money on the innards. These should be very carefully inspected.
4) Crappy neighbors. That 1980 Granada and pile of tires in the neighbors back yard is not going to magically disappear when you close on the property.
5) Always have a home inspection. An inspector is never going to say "don't buy this house". Read between the lines of the report.
6) Find out about the HOA. There are some HOA's out there that make Hitler look like a rational guy.
7) Sellers repairs: The seller is going to do it the cheapest cheapskate way they can cheaply do cheap repairs. Make sure it's understood that seller repairs are to be completed by licensed professionals in a neat, code compliant, professional manor.
8) Incomplete or evasive disclosure. As-is generally means there is something majorly wrong.
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Looks like Reverend Wright got his wish - God Damn America.
Nancy Pelosi - House Minority Leader 2010
Harry Reid - Senate Minority Leader 2010]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,23298000 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:51:13 EDT