Whether you have bought a property for the first time or have many times before, you may or may not be aware of the local Building Department and the files that they keep on properties.
We find that most buyers or sellers do not know how many things really do require a permit. A lot of sellers assumed repairs that they made did not require a permit, and therefore will not disclose-- not that they are necessarily trying to hide anything! Changing a ceiling fan or water heater requires a permit. Changing windows--even like for like-- requires a permit. And on and on.
It is always a good idea for a buyer to check the building department files to check and see what is there, what may be an issue, and what is not there. Only check-- it is not good practice to turn in a seller (who is actively on the market) for a possible permit issue, but it is a very good idea to check the file before or during your inspection period when buying a property.
Another misconception is that everything will be "grandfathered-in" and acceptable once the new buyer purchases. Not so! The new buyer is purchasing with all the possible issues and defects, with very little exception. Some building departments will forgive older homes and work that was done before a certain year, but that depends on the city and county.
Some homes look so standard that no one worries about checking (although it is always good to check) while others look odd or give that funny feeling... and I have come across one or two with no permits at all! It can happen...
-- Karena Jolley, Realtor at Coldwell Banker Mendo Realty
partners with Kelsi Ryan
Mendohomes
Mendohomes.com
No comments:
Post a Comment