House Hunting Update, Tips, and Help From Orkin

Hello Darling!

A few months ago, you may remember Hunter and I announced that we were beginning our house hunting journey. We have not found our beautiful home yet but we have already learned so much. Today, we thought it would be fun to share the best tips we have learned so far.

Home Buying Tips

• Flood Zones and Water Damage

It’s crucial to research the area that you are looking in and ask if the home has had flood or water damage. If it has, you could be at risk of mold and water loving pests. If you are in Houston, we learned that most homes are required to have a “Harvey Addendum”. This will tell you the history throughout Hurricane Harvey and any damages that were caused during that time. Make sure that you and your realtor request to see this because the listing agent may not disclose the flood damage upfront.

• Research School Ranking 

Whether you have kids or not this plays a big factor in the resell value.

• Research The Area and Neighborhood

– Are there any sex offenders close by?

-Do the neighbors take care of their yards?

Fun fact: though you may have your yard in pristine condition, your neighbors overgrown yard can cause pest problems for you both 

-Is there a lot of remodeling or construction happening?

 Fun Fact: Construction can can destroy natural habitats for rodents and ants, causing them to seek refuge indoors.

-What is the area like at it’s busiest time?

Pay attention to the noise, traffic, trains, etc.

• Keep An Eye Out For Any Current or Potential Pest Damage

-Flooring: Notice the floors, if your high heel steps through the hardwood, it is the biggest indication that there is termite damage and the termites have probably moved to another area of the house as well

-Baseboard: Knock on the baseboard. If you hear hollowed wood, termites or wood-boring beetles may be there.

-Foundation: Check for cracks or gaps in the foundation. Pests can enter homes through the smallest of cracks.

-Bathrooms: Cockroaches love moisture. It’s important to check the bathrooms for any signs of these pests.

Fun Fact: Just because a home is new does not means it’s free of pests. In fact, newer homes can be more vulnerable to certain types of pests. 

• The Importance of A FULL Home Inspection + A Separate Pest Inspection

A home inspection is extremely crucial when it comes to the home buying process. We found out that it is very important to find the best inspector for you. It is recommend to interview several of them before making a decision. We also learned that a separate pest inspection is a must before buying the home. When it comes to traditional home inspections, pest issues are not included. Laws vary by state and, depending on where you live, the sellers may not be legally obligated to disclose any significant pest damage. This is why it is important to have a pest management professional inspect your potential new home while it’s in escrow.

Help From Orkin Pest Control

As first time home buyers, we feel very blessed but it can be overwhelming at times. This is why, we are so excited to be working with Orkin Pest Control. Throughout these next few months they will be assisting us in selecting a pest free home. Today as we begin our relationship with them, they have Kindly given you all 15% off termite control!  Available now through June 30, 2018, call 877-284-7210 and mention offer code: TC15. A qualified Orkin Termite Inspector will provide a free inspection of your home and design a custom treatment plan that fits your needs.

You can find out more of what to look for when buying a home by reading through Orkins Homebuyers Guide To Pests.

YOU ARE SO LOVED!

XOXO,Tay

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Thank you to Orkin Pest Control For Sponsoring This Post

Photography: Stephania Campos Photography