Shopping For A New Home: Three Things The Yard Can Tell You
When shopping for a new home for sale, you want to make sure that everything inside the home meets your expectations. However, there are many good reasons to inspect the yard as well. Taking a close look at the property around the home can tell you a lot about the house you are considering purchasing. Here are some things to look at when inspecting the outside of a home.
Inspect The Downspouts
Having a properly functioning gutter and downspout system can prevent leaks and water damage, so take a few moments to inspect the downspouts around the house. Look for cracks or holes, which might be an indication that the gutters are also in a state of disrepair. Look at the soil around the bottom of the downspout. If there appears to be erosion or pooling of water in the area, there may be an issue with how the downspouts are pitched. This might mean that the gutter system is channeling water to the house instead of away from it.
Look For Holes And Hills
The last thing you want to have to worry about when moving into a new home is a pest infestation, and you may be able to find some telltale signs of pest problems in the yard. Look for small holes in the yard that sit close to the house, as these may be signs of burrowing animals. You may also be able to spot anthills or even nesting sites for insects. If you do see holes in the yard, look at the grass or plant life next to them for signs that animals have been chewing on them. These signs might indicate that the property will need some sort of extermination services in the future.
Check For Soggy Patches
In some cases, a yard might not have a proper drainage system, which can lead to flooding, even during mild rains. Walk around the yard and look for soggy patches. You may find areas that seem to be soaked with water despite a lack of significant rainfall. If you do spot soggy patches, as the current owner if he or she has been watering the lawn regularly. This might be an indication that the lawn was simply over-watered, but it can also be a sign that the lawn may be prone to flooding.
Of course, the lawn can also help indicate how well the home has been cared for. Check the fences and gates to see if hey are in proper working condition, and take note of the condition of any sheds or outbuildings. The yard may just hold a few clues that can tell you whether the house you want to buy is right for you.
