A personal inspection is not to replace a professional home inspection. Think of it as a precautionary measure and extra protection against a bad investment. The purpose is only to eliminate those properties that have too many obvious deficiencies from your consideration.

In doing so, you’ll save time. Which will really mean money in the long run, since you won’t need a professional to come in.

You may use this checklist as a guide:

• Foundation - Look for any obvious cracks. Also, see if there are any apparent shifts in the foundation. Remember, foundation problems are expensive to repair.
• Roof - Check the age of the roof. Its age usually shows through so check if it appears new or old. If it is of an indeterminate age, take note of that. Overall, what is its condition? If it is shingled, how many layers does it have? More than two is bad. If it is a flat roof, look for cracking and feel for soft spots. Don’t go up on any roof that you would feel uncomfortable on though.
• Evidence of leaks - Check inside as well as outside. Check all ceilings and areas around windows. Look for staining and blooming behind paint.
• Basement or crawlspace - Is there dampness? Be careful of any signs of flooding, such as water intrusion, mildew, staining on the paint, etc. Is there adequate insulation? Are there any signs of animals living there?
• Attic - How does the interior of the roof structure look? Any water stains?
• Quality and Workmanship - In general and in any additions.
• Apparent energy efficiency - Check if the house appears tightly sealed.
• Electrical - You don’t have to open any wire panels. Just see if there are any obvious malfunctions. Do all the switches work? No black marks around the outlets. Are the outlets three prong or two?
• Plumbing - Any unusual noises or malfunctions? slow drains? Poor pressure?
• Appliance condition - What is the age and condition of the stove, dishwasher, refrigerator (if included), etc.?
• Heating/Cooling System - Does it seem to do the job heating or cooling? Turn them on if they are off. Don’t take the owners word for there condition. Look for hang tags noting repairs and inspections. If oil heat, is the tank above ground?
• Exterior - Is the house going to need repairs or paint soon?
• Lot - Does the drainage appear good and slope away from the house? Any large bare spots?
• Are there any trees encroaching or damaging the roof, foundation, driveway or sidewalks?

Remember to be sure to review these items to ensure that you have everything covered. But REMEMBER, this does not take place of a professional home inspection.