[kp11364]

I had read recently about different types of "cracks" on a block/stucco home, and stupid me - didn't mark the thread.

Asymmetric cracks (I think) meant minor settling issues.

"Stair step" cracks (I think) meant something more serious.

If someone could help me out, I'd appreciate it!

Thanks in advance,

Kevin

[villagetinker]

Yes, you have that correct. The previous thread indicated a stairstep crack usually indicated a possible foundation problem. If you are looking for a very good house inspector, call Frank DeAngelo .

[Mortal1]

First question should be "how old is the home?"

[kp11364]

When I come down to TV and start looking at houses, that's one of the first questions ... as well as the roof and AC age...

[villagetinker]

Originally Posted by kp11364

When I come down to TV and start looking at houses, that's one of the first questions ... as well as the roof and AC age...

Good point, there is usually a structural warranty for 10 years.

[Pairadocs]

Originally Posted by kp11364

When I come down to TV and start looking at houses, that's one of the first questions ... as well as the roof and AC age...

One thing to keep in mind when considering the roof, AC, water heater, etc. age is that many people here replace all of these BEFORE they put their home on the market (we had relatives who just did this, and indeed got "top dollar" for the home), but remember, others sell the very same model with the same square footage (and most homes on the market here will have been kept up and have nice/tasteful interiors, but they do not replace all the above mentioned before putting the home on the market and then pricing accordingly. If you go through a home you really like, but has 18 year old roof (but no leaks, etc.), an 18 year old AC and furnace, and a 12 year old WH, etc. just make a mental check list like: roof 12K, AC 5K, WH $400, (depending on your tastes, brands, sizes needed) and THEN check against the selling price. It could pay you to find a house you like and if these majors are soon to need replacement, you might come out ahead to buy that one due to the property tax based on selling price, and then replace those items when they actually wear out ! ? Do the homework as they say !

[kp11364]

Originally Posted by Pairadocs

One thing to keep in mind when considering the roof, AC, water heater, etc. age is that many people here replace all of these BEFORE they put their home on the market (we had relatives who just did this, and indeed got "top dollar" for the home), but remember, others sell the very same model with the same square footage (and most homes on the market here will have been kept up and have nice/tasteful interiors, but they do not replace all the above mentioned before putting the home on the market and then pricing accordingly. If you go through a home you really like, but has 18 year old roof (but no leaks, etc.), an 18 year old AC and furnace, and a 12 year old WH, etc. just make a mental check list like: roof 12K, AC 5K, WH $400, (depending on your tastes, brands, sizes needed) and THEN check against the selling price. It could pay you to find a house you like and if these majors are soon to need replacement, you might come out ahead to buy that one due to the property tax based on selling price, and then replace those items when they actually wear out ! ? Do the homework as they say !

Thanks for that insight! I was thinking along the same lines as well and I'd hope that the sellers are pricing correctly (or are willing to be flexible based on the age of items)