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Friday, October 16, 2009

Reduce Foreclosure Risk ? Hire a Structural Engineer

By Mary Smith

A structural engineer can be a valuable asset to those interested in purchasing foreclosed property. Foreclosed homes may have maintenance and repair issues caused by years of neglect. Over several years, these problems may escalate to the point that they become a threat to the entire structure. In some cases these problems are obvious and sometimes they?re largely hidden.

Florida sellers are required by law to disclose problems that are not obvious if they might affect the property value. Property in foreclosure however, is typically owned by a bank. They don?t live on the property and in fact, may never even visit the property. They cannot disclose information they?re not aware of. The result is that they sell these properties ?as is.? In these cases home inspectors and structural engineers can help.

Structural engineers have a thorough understanding of what makes a structure stable and what problems could undermine that stability. They will perform a thorough examination of the walls, beams, floors, foundation and other components of the structure to find any evidence of deterioration or deformation that might affect the structure.

The differences between a professional home inspector and a structural engineer are important. A structural engineer can examine a structure, diagnose the problem and offer recommendations. Home inspectors are limited to a careful examination and describing exactly what they see. They are not qualified to offer solutions.

Home inspectors reduce the risks associated with buying a home. Foreclosed homes can be an even greater risk, and most savvy buyers would not consider such a purchase without a professional inspection. Inspections can detect potentially expensive problems that might have gone undetected. Knowledge of these issues will allow the negotiation needed to cover the extra costs.

When inspecting a foreclosed property for the first time, examine the property and structure carefully. Consider the services of a structural engineer if any of the following are found: cracks in the foundation or walls, binding of doors or windows, floors that slope in one direction, walls that lean, or porches that slope toward the house.

The purchase of a foreclosed home should not be a high risk venture. Many of the risks involved can be understood and averted with the help of a professional home inspector and a structural engineer. These experts are highly trained and independent and can offer you the peace of mind you need to purchase a home or to make a safe investment, - 23217

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