The Three Types Of Defects
During our visits to various homes, we will see certain types of defects. These defect types are cosmetic, functional, and fundamental. Understanding the differences in these defects will help you to make a wise home buying decision.
- Cosmetic defects are obvious to the naked eye such as faded paint, worn carpet, torn or unattractive wallpaper. These items are easy to correct for a finite amount of money. Even an old roof is a cosmetic defect since it can easily be corrected. Cosmetic defects can be advantageous as they may actually affect the price to a degree greater than their cost to correct.
- Functional defects are defects of obsolescence. Older styled kitchens, dark paneling or cabinets, small bathrooms and obsolete floor plans are good examples of functional defects that can be corrected or improved, but at a higher cost.
- Fundamental defects are the big problem. Things such as power lines, drainage detention ponds, busy streets, proximity to commercial development or undesirable nuisances are prime examples of fundamental defects, but there are others. I want you to carefully consider such things as steep driveways, the first or second house in the subdivision, backing up to a busy road, views of water towers or power line towers, corner lots and odd floor plans or elevations.
Remember, I have told you to think RESALE before buying. Carefully consider all defects in any home that you hope to buy. All of these items will negatively affect, to some degree, your own personal enjoyment of a home and also your ability to resell it at a later date. You will find that I will readily point these things out and discourage you from buying a home with severe defects that cannot be remedied. I want to find you a home that you will love for as long as it fits your needs and not discover these defects a few weeks after you move in. Eventually you will want to sell your home and I want you to be happy in your choice and in my service and call me to help you sell it.
