Getting approved for a mortgage in Michigan is an exciting time.  Equally exciting is being a first-time buyer.  There’s a lot of excitement, energy and emotion tied into that first purchase.  First-time buyers often go all in on a home and have a tendency to overpay just to get the home they fell in with.

That’s not always a bad thing, but it can leave you strapped for cash that’s sometimes necessary to make repairs.

To avoid getting dinged in the pocketbook, a proper inspection is critical.  You don’t want a low-ball inspector though – it’s more important to get someone that is thorough. An inspector that’s able to look at the entire property could save you thousands of dollars.

Dealing with Foundation Issues

It probably doesn’t need to be emphasized how important a solid foundation is for your new home.  If there’s a foundation issue it can be a serious headache that leads to massive repairs and a big cost.  A few cracks might not be a major problem, but larger foundation problems can cost tens of thousands to repair.

If an inspector believes there to be a problem with the foundation then call in a specialist to assess the assumed damage.  If the damage is too severe, walk away.  There are plenty of other homes on the market.

Shifting Lands and Wetlands

In the late 90’s to around 2004 there were a lot of homes and subdivisions erected quickly.  In some cases, land development was rushed.  This may not be common, but it can lead to issues with your home.  Be cautious when inspecting the land around your home.

If your property burrows into the side of a hill, on a slope, has retaining walls or you think you see minor signs of shifting then get a thorough inspection done.  Shifting land can lead to damage to the primary structure of a home and could make it unlivable.  Remember that even a home built on flat land – or what looks like flat land – can settle and shift.

Wetlands are also an issue in some issues where the water table is much higher than surrounding areas.  Also, if your neighborhood is surrounded by higher land, water can pool and collect, causing constant moist soil.  This can lead to flooding in basements and a host of other issues.  You might not be an expert, which is why it’s a good idea to consult with an engineer as well as a professional inspector to get a sound judgment on the property.

Dealing with Dangerous Drywall

Living in Michigan, you wouldn’t expect hurricane season to affect us.  Unfortunately, storms around the country can – and do.  During the 2004 hurricane season, the devastation of Rita and Katrina caused so much damage that home repairs exhausted U.S. drywall supplies.  Contractors and builders imported drywall from China, but the material was substandard.

Having to repair bad drywall and poorly designed additions can be costly, so make sure your inspection is thorough.  You went through all the legwork of getting approved through a Michigan mortgage lender and finding the right now – don’t let it become the wrong home after you’ve parted with your money.