First-Time Homebuyers Q&A: Part 6..

By Heather Faucher | Posted on August 26, 2009 | Filed Under Real Estate 

Check out Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4 and Part 5 of this semi-regular series.

Okay, so what steps can I take to protect my family and myself?

22. WHAT CAN I DO TO KEEP MY FAMILY SAFE FROM LEAD IN THE HOME?

For all houses built before 1978, it’s absolutely crucial to have an inspection for lead-based paint if you have children under 7 years old. Lead flakes from paint can be contained in both the home and the soil surrounding the house, so make sure all potentially dangerous areas are checked. Temporary solutions include repairing damaged paint areas or planting grass over contaminated soil, but a more permanent fix is hiring a lead abatement contractor to remove the lead-filled paint chips and seal all damaged areas.

23. SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT POWER LINES?

There haven’t been any definitive findings in studies that indicate exposure to power lines brings about greater amounts of disease or illness. So the answer is, most likely not.

24. SHOULD I HIRE A LAWYER TO BUY A HOME?

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First Time Homebuyers Q&A Part 5

By Heather Faucher | Posted on July 31, 2009 | Filed Under Real Estate 

Check out Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4 of this semi-regular series.

SO I FOUND MY DREAM HOME! NOW WHAT?

19. WHAT ABOUT HOME INSPECTORS? WHAT DO THEY DO, AND HOW IMPORTANT ARE THEY?

Let’s tackle the last question first: EXTREMELY important! A home inspector is an expert in the safety, structure, and condition of homes. Once you hire an inspector to examine the home you’re considering purchasing, the inspector (we’ll use the pronoun “he” here on out just for convenience’s sake) will check the safety of the house, focusing mainly on the structure, construction, and mechanical systems of the house. He will also clue you in to any repairs that the home needs–something that is vital to know before you purchase the house and all problems become yours to take care of.

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