You’ve finally managed to find the ideal house after months of searching, and you’re excited to close the deal. However, there’s one more necessary step before you can actually move in, and that is the home inspection. Sure, it might sound like a standard procedure that won’t affect your decision too much.
But what if the inspection reveals mold? Should you give up on your dream home or buy it regardless? Let’s find out by taking a closer look at home inspections and mold!
Talk With the Inspector
First of all, we recommend you join the home inspector as they examine the property. That way, you’ll be able to notice any minor or major issues, such as possible water damage. It will also give you the opportunity to ask questions. But if that’s off the table, you should ask the inspector to allow you and your realtor to check the pictures from their report.
Remember that there’s no such thing as a stupid question. In other words, you should ask any question you have on your mind to avoid surprises later down the road. Our advice is to focus on questions regarding potential fungal activity, water damage, and moisture control problems.
Ask for a Second Opinion
At the end of the day, it’s always best to consult a qualified professional. Thus, you should ask the owner to give you some extra time to bring in a certified mold remediation technician and get a second opinion. They’ll be able to conduct a detailed inspection and find any possible signs of an infestation, such as fuzzy or organic growth on walls or discoloration. Additionally, a professional can also give you an estimate of how much it might cost to get rid of mold.
Negotiate the Price
Are you 100% sure that the property is infested with mold? Then it’s time to ask the owner to resolve this problem. Or, you can negotiate the sale price to offset the cost of the company you’ll need to hire once you receive the keys.
Keep in mind that, while it might be easier to push the owner to fix the problem, they might try to save money by cutting corners. As a result, it’s better to find and hire a company you can trust after you close the deal. And, if the seller doesn’t agree with your offer, there’s a big chance that they might actually try to hide other problems with the property.
Hire a Professional Mold Remediation Company
If you decide to move forward, you should have the mold removed before you actually move into the home. One idea is to ensure that it takes place on the day you receive the keys. That will give the mold remediation crew plenty of time and space to handle all the intricate procedures. It’s important to understand that getting a new home is a long-term commitment. Therefore, you don’t want to end up with a ruined, mold-infested property. So, make sure to get help as soon as possible!
