The 7 Things Calgary Buyers Should Look for During a Home Inspection

A home inspection report can easily be 50+ pages long.

For buyers, that can make even a great house suddenly look terrifying.

The key is understanding the difference between normal maintenance and issues that could actually cost you significant money.

Here are seven areas Calgary buyers should pay particular attention to.

1. Roof

Ask about the roof's age, condition and remaining lifespan.

Replacing a few shingles is very different from needing an entirely new roof shortly after possession.

2. Furnace & HVAC

Calgary winters make heating systems especially important.

Look at the furnace's age, service history and condition. Also check air conditioning, humidifiers and other mechanical equipment included with the property.

3. Plumbing

Watch for leaks, drainage problems, older plumbing materials and signs of previous water damage.

Depending on the age of the home, understanding the type of plumbing installed can be particularly important.

4. Foundation & Water

A small cosmetic crack isn't necessarily a major problem.

However, buyers should pay attention to significant foundation movement, moisture intrusion, grading issues and evidence of recurring basement water problems.

5. Electrical

An inspection should identify potential concerns with the electrical panel, wiring, outlets and other visible components.

Older homes may require additional investigation or upgrades.

6. Windows & Exterior

Windows, siding, stucco, decks and exterior drainage can become expensive projects.

Ask yourself:

Is this normal maintenance—or am I looking at several major expenses within the first few years?

That's the more important question.

7. The Big Picture

Perhaps the biggest mistake buyers make is treating every item in an inspection report equally.

A loose door handle isn't the same as a failing furnace.

A cracked outlet cover isn't the same as significant water intrusion.

Focus first on safety, structure, water, electrical, plumbing and major mechanical systems.

Then deal with the smaller maintenance items separately.

Final Thoughts

The goal of a home inspection isn't to find a perfect house.

Perfect houses don't exist.

The goal is to understand what you're buying, identify potentially expensive problems and make an informed decision before moving forward.

And remember: a long inspection report doesn't necessarily mean you should walk away.

Sometimes it simply gives you a very useful to-do list for owning the home.

 

To learn more about what Calgary’s bustling real estate market has to offer, contact the Top Calgary Real Estate Team today!

 

Justin Warthe

Team Lead

403-620-8746

jw@topcalgaryrealestate.com