Should I Buy a House with Mold?

Should I Buy a House with Mold?

For most people, a house will be the biggest investment of their lifetime. As such, due diligence is essential. If you are considering taking the plunge into new homeownership, taking time to identify defects will save you in the long run.

If you discover a home you are considering has mold, there are several ways to proceed. The price, how much you like the house, and if you can reach an agreement with the seller all play a role in deciding whether or not to move forward with the sale. If the problem is minor or the price is right, you might decide to proceed. However, walking away might save you time and money in the long run if you’re paying top dollar or there’s a major problem.

When Should You Walk Away from a House with Mold?

house inspectionWhen considering a new home purchase, it is essential to know when to pass on a home with mold. If there is a concern, your real estate agent is a good place to start. They can assist you throughout the process and work with the seller to resolve the problem.

You should also think about the home’s pricing and value. Maybe it’s still an excellent deal if it provides everything you want at the right price. However, if you’re paying a pretty price or it’s not exactly what you want, it could be wise to walk away.

If you decide to go for it, you’ll need to contact the seller for negotiations. The goal is to reach an agreement that benefits both of you. Your representative will advise you on the best way to proceed with the talks.

Mold removal may be paid for by the seller in some situations. You can also agree to buy the house “as-is” for a reduced price. You might alternatively divide the costs or increase the sale price to pay for the removal.

If the seller consented to have the mold removed, request a copy of the work documents. After that, you should contact a different business to inspect the house to ensure that everything is done appropriately.

Is It Legal to Sell a Mold-Infested House?

You can sell a home that has mold, but the seller must disclose the issue in the disclosure agreement. Make sure you read the contract well before signing it and ask your agent if you have any questions.

If the seller cites a mold problem, you should seek a mold inspection and a price to have it removed by a professional. This way, you’ll know the extent of the damage and how much it’ll cost to fix it. This will also come in handy when it comes to negotiating the sale price.

mold inspectionWhen Buying A Home, Should I Get A Mold Inspection?

When purchasing a home, a mold check is not always required. If you are allergic to mold or notice indicators of a problem, you should have an inspection done.

If your house inspector notices water leaks or other indicators of mold, he or she may recommend one. Leaks, standing water, blotches or stains, and excess moisture are all signals that there may be a mold issue.

You should only hire a trained mold specialist if you decide to obtain an inspection. Always choose your own inspector rather than relying on the seller’s recommendation.

Mold Removal in the Phoenix Area

Whether you require a mold inspection or mold removal, our experienced pros can help. Mold is no laughing matter and can lead to serious issues. Many molds release allergens that irritate the eyes and skin and can even cause repository problems. Other molds, such as black mold, can be deadly. It’s best to involve a professional, a.s.a.p.

National First Response has years of expertise in residential and commercial remediation and is proud to offer quality customer service, expert professionals, and 24/7 assistance in the Phoenix area. Get in touch today!