Wondering what might be wrong with that house you are considering selling?

Long after the "For Sale" sign appears, a home inspection may reveal big surprises, which can become a matter of negotiation that lowers the price or costs extra to be repaired by a deadline tied to a scheduled closing.

Anticipating repairs by identifying potential problem areas can save money.

The 10 most common home defects, according to Milford, Ohio-based Home Team Inspection Service, include:

• Poor drainage that allows water to damage the foundation.
• Faulty heating or cooling systems that are also energy inefficient.
• Mold, asbestos and other environmental hazards.
• Inadequate ventilation.
• Neglected maintenance of household appliances. Lint build-up in the trap of a dryer, for example, can result in a fire.
• Plumbing problems.
• A leaking or damaged roof.
• An addition or other major project completed without the necessary permit.
• Electrical issues.
• Rotten wood, whether inside around bathtubs, showers and toilets or part of the home's exterior, such as the outside trim, roof eaves or deck.

via Los Angeles Times
Syndicated with permission.