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Why Buyers Shouldn't Overlook the Garage
It's easy to get lost in the vaulted ceilings, beautiful views, and spacious rooms of your potential new home. These marvelous features contribute to the home's ambiance and hint at your future lifestyle. But, it's important to find your focus and turn your attention to the home's more utilitarian spaces. In particular, you don't want to overlook the garage of the Arden Hills homes for sale you have your eyes on. These rooms can have hidden qualities...and hidden flaws you will want to know about before you sign the papers.
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Look the Garage Up and Down
Look at the roof and walls for signs of leaks and other damage. Streaks on the wall, bubbling drywall, and sagging ceiling panels are indications that there is a moisture problem in the garage. You should also look at the insulation. This is often overlooked, but it can have a significant impact on your monthly utility bills. Make sure the insulation isn't compacted and that it's not moldy or smells of mildew.
It's also vital to look at the floor. Make sure you look closely for cracks and signs that the concrete is separating. While standing water is rare unless it's recently rained or the floor has been cleaned, if you see water stains on the floor it's an indication that there is a low spot where water collects and pools. -
Open the Doors
Make sure the garage doors roll up and down with ease. Listen closely to the sound of the garage door opener's motor and the movement of the chain or screw. The door should open smoothly and without jerks or stops. Take a flashlight and inspect the springs and track to make sure they are free of rust. Finally, look carefully at the safety sensors and test them to confirm they function properly.
Additionally, look at the door from the garage into the home. It should be solid and have a minimum 20-minute fire-resistance rating. This is crucial as many structure fires start in the garage when stored fuel, cleaning agents, and other combustibles ignite. -
Look for Pests
Warm in the winter, cool in the summer, garages are beacons for bugs, rats, mice, birds, and Mother Nature's other creatures. Inspect the garage for nests and signs that furry roommates and those with more than two legs have moved into the home. -
Consider the Size
If you have multiple cars, or a soon-to-be driver in the family, consider the size of the garage. Is it large enough for your current vehicles and any future vehicles you may purchase? Pull out the measuring tape and write down the dimensions of the garage. Also, consider what items you plan to store in the garage. Is it large enough for your kayak, bike, high school trophies, landscaping equipment, work tools, etc.? While you're thinking this over, look for and ask about attic space, and other "bonus" storage space that might be hidden in the garage. -
Look Over the Power and Lights
Many homes have the breaker box in the garage of any Bemidji homes for sale. Give the breakers and electrical systems a quick inspection and make sure that everything looks well maintained and that there aren't any loose wires, scorch marks, etc.
Call today for more information about the things we recommend looking at in the garage of any prospective new home. It's our pleasure to answer your questions and help you find the home of your dreams.