Uncover hidden problems before buying a home in Massachusetts

The honest truth about the vast majority of home buyers is that you don’t know what you don’t know.

In this blog post, we will shed light on some of the common, yet often overlooked issues you’ll frequently encounter when touring homes for sale in Massachusetts. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for during your home tours, both on the inside and outside of homes for sale. This will potentially save you from spending money for a home inspection on a property you will ultimately not buy.  Or, what would be infinitely worse, waiving home inspection and purchasing a home you will regret owning for years to come!

Aging roofs: A common concern

One of the first things to consider when buying a home in Massachusetts is the age of the roof.

For instance, in one of our recent listings, we encountered dark streaks on the roof, indicative of aging shingles. As diligent listing agents, we made sure that potential buyers were aware of this issue during open houses. By being transparent about the roof’s condition, we found a buyer who was willing to budget for a new roof over time. This approach not only prevented a potential sale from falling through but also created a win-win situation for both the buyer and the seller.

The impact of Massachusetts winters on homes

Massachusetts winters are notoriously wet, with frequent snow and rain during the cold, dark months. Many housing issues in the state are related to water penetrating into homes.

• Exterior wood rot Exterior wood decay is a prevalent issue, particularly affecting wood trim and fascia. In some cases, the damage is as evident as completely rotted window sills and frames. However, wood decay is often less noticeable. Puffy areas of wood under paint are a sign of deterioration, which will be noted during a home inspection in Massachusetts. Any gaps or holes in exterior wood allow water to penetrate the home’s structure, necessitating repair. The best solution is to replace the rotted wood rather than just filling the holes with putty.

• Basement water issues Water penetration in basements is a significant concern for Massachusetts homeowners. While it might be totally obvious when there’s standing water in the basement during your tour, the signs of the  problem often are much more subtle. Look for white efflorescence on concrete walls, which are mineral deposits left by water penetrating the foundation. Check wooden furniture legs for water marks and inspect the backside of wallboard for signs of mold. Rusty Lally columns, which are concrete-filled support posts, can also indicate water issues in a basement.

• Sump pumps and French drains Sump pumps are common in Massachusetts basements. If you see one with deep standing water in the sump hole, it means the sump pump is necessary to keep the interior dry. Perimeter drain systems, often referred to as French drains, are a more robust solution for water-prone basements. These systems involve removing the basement floor around the foundation and installing drainage pipes that lead to one or several sump pumps. They often come with battery backup systems and warranties, providing peace of mind for homeowners.

Structural concerns commonly found in MA homes

Here are a few of the structural issues you’ll most commonly encounter while touring homes for sale in the Greater Boston area:

• Temporary support posts Temporary support posts, which are hollow and not filled with concrete, are frequently found installed permanently in Massachusetts basements. These posts can fail in the event of a fire. It’s crucial to check if support posts are cement-filled; tap on them to ensure they are not hollow. Permanent posts are much safer and are designed to withstand the heat of a serious fire.

• Aging components and mechanical systems Old cast-iron waste pipes, which have a life expectancy of about 60 years, can start to leak. Look for rust stains as an indication of aging pipes. Similarly, windows from the 1980s and 1990s often need replacement due to failed seals and general age, as evidenced by moisture between the panes, drafts and wood rot. Older mechanical systems, such as furnaces, boilers, and air conditioning units, are often at or beyond their rated life expectancy. If the age of these systems concerns you, it might be wise to reconsider making an offer on the home.

• Attic ventilation issues If you find you like a particular home during your home tour, take the opportunity to look in the attic. Check for organic material on the rafters and sheathing, which might indicate mold. Mold is often a sign of a ventilation problem, but the good news is that it can be relatively easy and inexpensive to correct.

• Septic system concerns Massachusetts has the Title V septic system inspection law, requiring homeowners to have the septic system inspected as part of the home sale process. An older septic system that passes the Title V inspection doesn’t guarantee future functionality, especially if the new owner will produce more wastewater than the previous owner. While an older septic system doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy the home, be aware of the potential need for future repairs or replacements.

What the best buyer agents can do for you during home tours

When you work with a top-quality buyer agent in Massachusetts, you benefit from their expertise in spotting potential issues during home tours. You want your buyer agent to help you evaluate what you see inside and outside each home, allowing you to eliminate properties with readily identifiable defects before making an offer. This proactive approach can save you from the costs of multiple home inspections and the folly of waiving inspection on a home with potentially serious problems.

What a client said

Here’s a testimonial from one of our recent buyer clients:

“What truly set Warren Reynolds apart was his invaluable assistance during property tours. He meticulously helped me spot defects and problem conditions in homes, which allowed me to eliminate those properties from my list and focus on the best options. This attention to detail gave me immense confidence in the home I ultimately purchased.”

Lokesh Mahajan

Conclusion

Buying a home in Massachusetts can be a complex process, filled with potential pitfalls. However, by being informed and working with a knowledgeable buyer agent, you can navigate these challenges with confidence. From understanding the impact of the state’s wet winters to recognizing the signs of aging mechanical systems and structural issues, this guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to make a well-informed decision.I’m Warren Reynolds with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth. For a free consultation, message me by using the contact form below or give me a call at 508-561-6259. Our goal is to help you save time and money and ultimately buy a better home!