FHA loans are most commonly used by first-time home buyers or people who don't have enough extra money to put towards a house down payment. If the buyer is using an FHA loan as a seller, the financing will be contingent on an inspection. Here is a list of 12 repairs that must be fixed before closing:
Paint that is chipping or peeling MUST be scraped off and repainted. This applies to all areas inside and outside the house, including garages, sheds, fences, etc. This is a typical FHA repair requirement for houses constructed before 1978.
All functional elements of the house, such as appliances, flooring, and particularly the roof, should have a remaining lifespan of at least 2 years. The roof should not exceed three layers of shingles.
Windows and doors that are broken ought to be replaced.
Health and safety threats, such as a garage door opener that doesn't reverse when met with resistance, or burglar bars, are present. GFIC outlets are not a necessity according to FHA regulations.
The reason for poor drainage must be addressed (i.e., enhance drainage away from the house, gutters, french drains, etc.)
A licensed well sealing contractor must cap and seal abandoned wells that are no longer in operation.
Handrails for safety should be put in place in open staircases with three or more steps.
Any type of infestation, such as insects, mice, bats, etc., needs to be eradicated.
The FHA appraiser will inspect the plumbing, electric and heating systems. Any damage or non-functioning aspects should be fixed.
Repairs must be made to structural or foundation issues. While these are not typical FHA repairs, they could occur.
Storage tanks that can catch fire need to be taken out and the filler cap needs to be shut securely from the inside, such as in the case of a buried oil tank.
The homeowner will be responsible for ensuring that any crawl space is accessible for a thorough inspection. Although crawl spaces are not common in most homes in Santa Clarita, some older houses do feature them.
If you have any questions or concerns about what you need to do to your home before listing it, please give our office a call at (717) 779-9833.
