Foreclosed Home Inspections in Virginia

Virginia foreclosed home inspections are different from a typical resale inspection in several key ways. Typically, a foreclosed home inspection in Virginia is completed on a home owned by a bank or government agency. As a potential buyer of a foreclosed home in Virginia, you should be aware that these sellers have different requirements of disclosure during a sale. Typically these sellers are exempt from disclosure laws and regulations by which other sellers of real estate must abide.

The “as-is” purchase combined with the lack of disclosure often puts a potential buyer in a tough spot. In order to have a foreclosed home inspected in Virginia, the bank must ratify the contract. Make sure to read the “special addenda” required when purchasing a foreclosed home in Virginia. Some of the addenda do not allow for a foreclosed home inspection in Virginia. Some of the addenda do not allow you to void the contract based upon information that is discovered during the foreclosed home inspection in Virginia.

After the contract is ratified, it is time to schedule a foreclosed home inspection in Virginia. The contract will typically specify a time frame of 10 days for the home inspection.

When you select an inspector to complete your Virginia foreclosed home inspection, be sure to select an inspector who is experienced in the nuances of completing a foreclosed home inspections in Virginia. Foreclosed home inspections in Virginia are not the same as resale homes.

Most common and most serious of the problems seen during a foreclosed home inspections in Virginia is mold. Mold grows when a home is exposed to excess moisture. The primary cause of the mold that is found during a foreclosed home inspection in Virginia is leaks. Foreclosed homes are not maintained. Gutters are blocked, welled exit drains are clogged, and pipes freeze and burst. All of these conditions, among others, create conditions that are conducive to mold growth.

In addition to the increased potential for leaks, foreclosed home inspections in Virginia are typically completed on homes that have been without power and gas for some period of time. This means that the home has not been heated or cooled. The conditioning of interior air helps to remove humidity from the air. The resulting increase in humidity can cause mold, especially in basements.

Vandalism is another common problem uncovered during a Virginia foreclosed home inspection. These homes have typically been empty for long periods of time. This drastically increases the likelihood that a home has been vandalized. A foreclosed home is prime target for vandals and break-ins. These homes often have broken toilets and sinks. Sometimes, copper plumbing and wiring has been stolen. Air conditioners, furnaces, appliances, cabinets, and water heaters have been stolen, leaving behind exposed wiring, open plumbing, and other damage.

Another form of vandalism, the parting owners often vandalize the home as well. Foreclosed home inspections in Virginia require special attention. This vandalism is often hidden and intentionally disguised. Intentionally obstructed sewer pipes are the most common of these issues.

The biggest issue is the sever lack of maintenance. Homeowners who could not afford to make their payments do not typically maintain the caulking in the bathrooms, change the air filters, or drain the water heater each year. Foreclosed home inspections in Virginia revolve around the issues that evolve from this deferred maintenance.

The most crucial piece of the foreclosure puzzle is to hire a home inspector! A professional who can tell you exactly what to expect. If you are going to purchase a home “as-is,” make sure to know what the condition of the home is. The key is to know what kind of repairs will be required.