The Main Line is an old area, and while many people admire the charm of their architectural features and stone construction, they are looking for modern convenience and design. So the most desirable homes are the ones that have been updated with modern kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing, electric, maybe even a family room addition and finished basement. This blog post is a public service announcement advising you to consider remodels with a critical eye. What I mean is: some “flippers” hope to distract you with shiny stainless steel and granite kitchens, new bath fixtures, paint and flooing so that you won’t notice the old roof, rotted window frames, dampness in the basement, dated electrical systems. etc. While updated finishes and fixtures can definitely be applealing, try to find out what harder-to see-things were remodeled and/or repaired. Some remodelers paint the walls, but don’t take the time to prep them correctly. I’ve seen new toilets installed in bathrooms where a previous toilet leak has rotted out the sub floor but it’s never been prepared. Obviously, you won’t be able to see everything, even if you’re diligent, but ask questions about whether plumbing and electric systems were updated, how new the heating, a/c, water heater and roof are, whether there were any leaks/fire/storm damage to the property, if there’s been any shifting of soil in the yard/under the house or driveway, etc.
Keep in mind, that, just as with any home purchase, no matter how honest the seller is when filling out the disclosure and no matter how many inspections and how much due diligence you do, there are things you won’t be able to see, know or predict. “Buyer beware” is an expression for a reason. That said, this post is just meant to warn you against what I refer to as “being blinded by granite.”
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