Working with a real estate agent to find your next family home is an exciting time. In New Jersey, there are plenty of things to check for. Obviously, you’ll be interested in the windows, heating and air conditioning systems, state of the roof, and overall shape of the house; all of these concerns need to be juggled with finding a home you love in the area you want within the budget you’ve set. Exhausting, right? Well, at least it would be if it weren’t such an exciting experience. The problem is, between exhaustion and excitement, it is all too common to forget to check certain systems as you tour homes with your agent. We advise, among other things, that you check the garage a bit harder.
“Yep, It’s There.”
Don’t fall into the poking your head in trap! Take your time when you tour potential future homes, especially the ones that could be strong contenders. Don’t just breeze by the garage; instead, go in and check it out. We recommend you at least do the following:
- Turn on the lights, both the switch lights and button activating the light built into the garage door openers. Make sure that all are working properly, and note any that are not. This also includes any motion detection lights on the outside of the structure.
- Inspect the flooring, foundation, and floorplan. Make sure that the garage will suit your needs, fit whatever vehicles and storage you will need it to, and check to see if the floor shows obvious signs of wear and tear or structural issues.
- Test the garage door openers thoroughly. To best do this, we advise using the button to fully open each and close each door, test any installed automatic reverse systems and sensors on both doors, and be sure to note any loud noises, shaking, or strain in either system.
- Look for anything out of place. Things like electrical panels, non-grounded outlets, and exposed piping or ductwork could potentially create a costly repair for you down the line. If something seems odd, take note of it and bring it up to your home inspector when and if you decide to move forward with purchase.
- For standalone garages, inspect structure, roofline, shingling, etc. Treat a standalone as a separate building structure from the home. Ensure that all siding, roofing, and other maintenance items performed on the home itself are mirrored in application and quality on the garage.
Due Diligence Saves You Money
It is crucial you are satisfied with your garage systems, as it is likely that nobody will check these things for anything beyond the bare minimum working conditions (if at all) throughout the appraisal and inspection process. Do yourself a favor, and factor in any issues with the garage on par with anything else you find throughout the tour. Consult with your real estate agent about how best to negotiate any issues you do happen to find when and if you decide to move forward with an offer on the property. Of course, our expert technicians would be happy to provide an estimate prior to home purchase to assist with the negotiations. Finding issues prior to taking possession of the home can save you a great deal of money and inconvenience in the future.
For all garage door installation and repair services, get in touch with New Jersey’s finest technicians. Contact us today for a free estimate, and have your questions answered!