You should never go without a home inspection by a certified home inspector.  They are trained, educated, and can spot items that a ordinary person would miss.  They do it every day.  They are a wealth of information.  so whether you are buying Livonia real estate, Novi real estate, or any Michigan home for sale you should get a home inspection done.  This checklist can serve as a reminder of some things to consider to make wise home buying decisions, to help aid you in your decision.

Check the foundation, floors, walls and poured concrete.   

Are there cracks, are there evidence of bowed walls?

Are there water stains on the basement walls?  Or a musty smell.

Make sure there's no evidence of water seepage or moisture problems. 

Are there electrical fixtures in the basement that look improperly wired?

Water Heater: Look for age, size adequate for house, speed of recovery, energy rating.

If there is a sump pump does it work

Check to see if the crawl space is dry, vented

While in the crawl space check for condition of floor joists.

Inspection by qualified exterminator is necessary for existing and potential problems related to wood rot and termites (termite inspections are an extra cost and separate inspection).

Check the condition of Underlayment flooring, whether plank or plywood.

Check for solid construction of bridging and joists.

Check walls, whether drywall or plaster. Make sure there are no water marks.

Make sure the attic is sufficiently insulated and ventilated.

Check for mold spots for inadequate ventilation or water leakage from roof 

Check that the fireplace damper is in working order, and flues to the chimney are clear. 

Check the plumbing system.  Look for poor water pressure, banging pipes, rust spots or corrosion that indicate leaks, sufficient insulation

On heating and air-conditioning systems, check what minor periodic maintenance is required, such as oil fan motor, lubricate bearings, clean humidifier, replace filters, etc.  Furnace/Air Conditioning: Look for age, energy rating; Furnaces are rated by annual fuel utilization efficiency; the higher the rating, the lower your fuel costs. However, other factors such as payback period and other operating costs, such as electricity to operate motors. 

Check the hot water system -- type and gallon capacity. How long has the present unit been in service?

Check the electricity to make sure that the standard house current, number of circuits, outlets and fuses or circuit breakers are sufficient for everyday needs, and the condition of wiring is good.   Number of outlets in each room. 

Doors and Windows: Look for loose or tight fits, condition of locks, condition of weatherstripping around the windows.  Is any of the wood rotting on the outside of the windows?

Ceilings, walls, and moldings: Look for loose pieces, drywall that is pulling away. 


Check for good water pressure throughout house and that the tie-in to local water supply facilities, etc. are all in working order.

If well and septic you should have a separate water and well inspection done even if costs extra.

Bathroom and kitchen fixtures should be in good shape. Is there evidence of water leakage under the sinks.
  
Make sure the range, refrigerator, dishwater/disposal, laundry facilities, etc. are all in working order.

Check exterior lot and landscaping. Are trees and shrubs overhanging electrical and phone lines. 

Outside does the ground slope away from the house for drainage. Is yard properly graded or contoured?

Check that fences, walls, patio and driveway are in good condition. 

Does concrete driveways/Sidewalks have major cracks or uneven?   Look for heaving pavement, crumbling near edges, stains. 

Siding: Look for dents or buckling. 

Be sure exterior walls are suitable to weather conditions.  Is caulk missing? Does it need repainting?  Are boards rotted?

Exterior Brick: Look for cracked bricks or mortar pulling away from bricks. 

Check doors and windows. Are they easy to open and close (or replace) for storm/screen removal or installation?  Is there moisture between the seals.  Is any part of the window rotted?

Are the roof, gutters and downspouts in good condition?  Are they clean?  Are they sagging?

Roof: Look for age, conditions of flashing, pooling water, buckled shingles, or loose gutters and downspouts.

Is the garage door or opener in good working order? Is there sufficient electrical and heating access in the garage? 
Porch/Deck: Loose railings or step, rotting wood. how long since it was stained last?

After you have the home inspected you now know whether your "Plymouth home" or "metro Detroit home" needs major or minor repairs.  Every house has  repairs.  If you have major repair you need to have the seller fix them,  renegotiate the sales price, or accept the home as is.  It is your choice.  The seller usually has the choice to do the repair or back out of the deal.  Good luck on this final phase of the buying process.  Russ Ravary