Buying a home can be one of the most rewarding experiences that you will ever have. However, for many, their starter homes—or even dream houses—have a few flaws. Creaky floorboards or leaky faucets are one thing. Dealing with roof damage, on the other hand, may feel completely overwhelming. Still, that doesn’t mean the end for you and the home you want. Instead, you just need to learn to properly handle the situation. Here’s how:
- Determine the location and source of the damage. Though the source of certain kinds of flaws may be more apparent than others—we’re looking at you, hurricanes—finding out what the damage is and where it comes from is important. That way, when someone inspects it, you can point it out and help them know where to look and even what to look for. Context is crucial, after all.
- Find someone qualified to assess the damage. Rule number one when dealing with roof damage: know just what you’re dealing with. Otherwise, you could find yourself in for a nasty shock: injury, debt, or even an unlivable home. Don’t just trust your eyes alone. Find someone qualified to assess the damage—and don’t be afraid to get a second opinion.
- Go over the damage—and what it means. Next, talk with the professional—or professionals—about what exactly is wrong with the roof. You should do this before you buy, not after. Have them go over every point of damage, what that means, and how to repair it—if at all. Fixing a damaged roof can be a long, involved, and costly process, so you don’t want to start it without having a plan and end game in sight.
- Figure out funding. Dealing with roof damage can be expensive. Though many of us have impulses to take out loans or just wing it, that can dramatically impact our finances and credit scores. Before you buy, figure out how you plan to fund roof repairs. This can range from your savings to your insurance to assistance from a Federal Housing Administration loan. Weigh your options carefully before you decide. Not only should you do the math, but you should make sure that talk with a qualified financial advisor as well. Finally, it’s possible that—with a “repair or replaced” quote provided from a licensed contractor—you can also get the seller to pay for the cost of repairs.
- Know how long you’re planning to stay in your home—and how that affects your roof. Every 20 years or so, no matter what a good life it has had, your roof will need a replacement. If you’re buying an older house whose only real issue is the age of its roof—and you plan on staying there for a long time—it may be the right option to buy the home and replace its roof. No matter where you go, if you’re staying there for a long time, a roof replacement is in your future. If you cannot afford one now, consider this a reminder to save for one in time.
Dealing with roof damage can put a dent—so to speak—in your plans. Despite the stress of assessment and repairs, carefully following a trusted plan and receiving help from qualified individuals can help you determine the proper path. Provided you proceed carefully—and don’t skip any important steps—you could have the right roof over your head soon.
Though buying a home can involve many factors, Ryan Roberts is dedicated to guiding people towards the right residence for them. If you want to buy or sell a residence in the Auburn, Opelika, or Lake Martin area, fill out our contact form here to begin. In the meantime, you can also read more home-related tips on our blog.