Houston Real Estate Blog - Diego Jaramillo, Realtor®

Houston real estate has begun to show signs of stability and we are confident that the first quarter of 2010 will bring more new construction.  Buying new construction is equivalent to the “new house scent syndrome”.  Buyers get too caught up with the thrill of the experience that they forget that this is one of the most important purchases in their life. As such, it is important to see the transaction through with caution and due diligence.  It’s not to say that your builder will cut corners but every now and then there are items that fall through the cracks, pun intended.

It is important for buyers to make their own check lists when they do their walkthroughs and make the builder accountable for addressing the items of concern.  Creating a checklist will assist you during any walk-through phase to ensure that the work has been completed properly. Feel free to discuss missing items with your Realtor if they were previously negotiated into your contract. Always have a paper trail or email trail of the items of concern and communication between your Realtor and builder/remodeler. If an item or repair you agreed on is missing, write the specific item down and address it in writing. Describe the problem and the location of the item needing repair.  The builder/remodeler can answer questions about your home including its use and upkeep. Please remember to keep safety first when inspecting your home and operating the mechanical or electrical systems. Avoid climbing on anything without proper equipment or ladder. If you have a concern after completing the walk-through, notify the builder/remodeler immediately and put it in writing as soon as possible.

1. Fencing and Retaining Walls: Inspect the fencing. Support posts should be firmly set.   Fencing material (planks or wire) should be securely fastened. Metal parts should be free of rust. Check masonry and wood for damage or deterioration.

1. Landscaping and Planting:  Check to make sure all vegetation is alive. Discuss options with builder if you notice vegetation is dying.

1. Shutoff/Cutoff Valves and Main Breakers:  Locate and become familiar with the operation of all shutoff and cutoff valves for gas and water as well as the main breakers for electricity.

1. Exterior Concrete Slabs:  Inspect concrete for exposed steel or damage.  New concrete slab should not be cracking.

1. Exterior Doors:  Inspect doors for damage.  Doors should open and close with ease and locks should be operational. Inspect doorbells for proper operation. Open French doors or sliding doors to test.

1. Stone and Masonry:  Inspect stone and masonry for damage or missing mortar. Inspect stucco for discoloration or damage. 

1. Exterior Paint and Stain:  Inspect paint and stain for discoloration or shade variation. Paint and stain should adequately cover required surfaces. Inspect for overspray onto other surfaces and report to builder. Inspect painted and stained surfaces for damage.

1. Roof/Gutters and Downspouts:  Visually inspect roof, gutters and downspouts for any damage.   Perform the inspection from ground level only; do not walk on the roof.

1. Garage Doors: Inspect garage doors for damage. Operate the garage door to make sure the door stays on its track and opens and closes completely. Test safety stop feature using a box or brick.

1. Stairs and Railings:  Inspect surfaces for exposed steel, protruding objects or damage.  Check that stairs and railings are secure. Listen for unusual popping or creaking.
    
2. Manuals and Warranties (Range or cook top, Refrigerator, Oven, Water Heater, Ice Maker, Microwave, Air Conditioner, Irrigation System, Elevators etc.):  Have all owner manuals and warranty information on new operating systems and appliances been provided?
3. Keys and Garage Door Openers:  Make sure you receive all keys and garage door openers been provided and that they are operational.
4. Interior Doors:  Inspect doors for damage.  Doors should open and close smoothly.  Check for door stops and request them if missing.
5. Specialty Doors:  Inspect sliding and pocket doors for proper operation.  They should slide easily, stay on their tracks and latch easily.
6. Carpet:  Inspect carpet for stains, spots, or any damage. Carpet should be securely attached.  Make sure there is no squeaking when walking.
7. Vinyl:  Inspect vinyl flooring for stains, bubbles, depressions, ridges or damage. 
8. Flooring:  Inspect wood flooring for damage and consistency in stain.  Inspect concrete floors for damage.
9. Grout:  Inspect grout for discoloration or cracking especially in bathrooms.
10. Countertops:  Inspect all countertop surfaces and edges for any damage or missing caulking.  Also make sure to check for cracks or chips on countertops and address options with builder.
11. Drywall:  Inspect ceilings and walls for sagging, bowing, visible nail heads or any damage.  Make sure texture has been properly applied, primed and painted.
12. Interior Paint and Stain:  Inspect paint and stain for discoloration or shade variation. Paint and stain should adequately cover all surfaces.  Inspect for overspray onto other surfaces.  Inspect painted and stained surfaces for damage.
13. Interior Ironwork:  Inspect ironwork for rust on surfaces.
14. Mirrors/Interior Glass/Shower Doors:  Inspect for secure installation or damage.
15. Windows:  Inspect windows for damage.  Windows should open and close without difficulty.   Inspect screens for any damage.
16. Skylights:  Visually inspect for signs of leaks or any damage.
17. Electrical Fixtures:  Inspect fixture surfaces, switch and plug covers for any damage.
18. Electric Panels: Inspect to ensure that the breakers are in panel boxes and are properly labeled.
19. Lighting:  Check fixtures to determine if light bulbs are in place, fixtures are operating properly and for damage.
20. Communications (Television, Cable, Internet, and Telephone):  Inspect all communication cover plates and fixtures for damage.
21. Bath Accessories:  Inspect toilet paper holders and towel bars for secure installation and for damage
22. Ceiling fans: Check fixtures to determine that all functions are operating properly and check for damage.
23. Plumbing Fixtures:  Inspect plumbing fixtures for secure installation, stains or damage.
24. Toilets:  Inspect toilets for secure installation or damage. Water should not be running continuously.
25. Closet Shelving:  Inspect shelving and rods for secure installation.  Brackets that support shelving and rods shall be installed no more that four feet apart.
26. Heating and Cooling Systems: Inspect filters and thermostats. Make sure they are securely attached.
27. Fireplaces and gas logs: Inspect all visible components of the f replace and chimney. Note any damage.
28. Cabinets: Inspect cabinets for damage and proper alignment.

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Sincerely,

Diego E. Jaramillo
Realtor, ABR, e-Pro
Keller Williams Houston Metropolitan
Cell: 832-282-2069 
Online at www.HoustonHeritage.com 
Facebook Fanpage: www.DiegoJaramillo.com

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