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What Florida Homebuyers Should Know About Plumbing Inspections in Older Homes

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Hidden plumbing problems in older homes, here in Florida, can lead to costly repairs if not identified early. Plumbing is one of the most essential systems in any home, but in older homes built before the 1990s, age, materials, and deferred maintenance can create real concerns for buyers. Here’s what you need to know about plumbing in older homes, what to look for during a walkthrough, and how an inspection can help you make a confident and informed purchase. Why Plumbing in Older Homes Deserves a Closer Look Our warm, humid climate, high water tables, and storm exposure all impact the long-term health of a home’s plumbing. In older properties, we often encounter: Outdated or recalled piping materials Hidden leaks or corrosion Clogged or deteriorated drain lines Low water pressure due to mineral buildup Inadequate or unsafe plumbing modifications Some of these issues are easy to spot—but others require professional inspection tools and experience. What Buyers Can Watch for During a Wal...
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Seeing the Unseen: How Infrared Technology Enhances Home Inspections in Florida

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We understand that buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make—especially here in Florida, where heat, humidity, and hidden issues can all affect the long-term condition of a property. That’s why modern home inspections have evolved beyond just the visual. One of the most valuable tools we now use is infrared thermal imaging—a technology that helps us detect hidden problems that traditional inspections might miss. Why Use Infrared Technology in a Home Inspection? Infrared (thermal) imaging allows us to detect differences in temperature behind walls, under floors, and above ceilings. These variations often indicate issues that aren't visible to the naked eye, such as: Hidden water leaks or moisture intrusion Insulation gaps Overheating electrical components Roof leaks HVAC inefficiencies or duct leakage Pest infestations (termites, rodents) that may alter temperature patterns In Florida, with our high humidity and frequent storms, these hidden issues can develop quic...
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Maintenance (Second Week of May)

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Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: Take a look at your Electrical System: Inspect wiring, outlets, and breaker boxes for any signs of issues. Consider having a professional electrician review your home’s electrical system, especially if it is older or has had previous issues. Inspect your water heater for signs of leaks or corrosion. Take this time to flush your tank water heater to remove sediment. Bathrooms are prone to mold and mildew due to our higher humidity. Look for signs of mold or mildew and clean them. Now is the time to take a look at your fences, decks, and patios for stability and signs of decay, repairing or reinforcing as necessary before the summer months. Review and update your insurance policies , particularly focusing on flood and hurricane coverage. Helpful Guidelines: We are including the information below to help as you work through maintenance and repairs on your home. Remember that the lifetime of ...
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Top 10 Common Issues in Florida Homes Built Before 2000: What Buyers Should Know

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When purchasing a home built before 2000 in Florida, it's important to understand the unique challenges that may come with older construction. We frequently identify certain issues in homes of this age that could affect safety, efficiency, and cost of ownership. Here are the top 10 problems we often find in homes built prior to the year 2000 here in Florida and what to watch for during your walkthrough, as well as types of inspections that can help you make an informed decision.  1. Outdated Electrical Panels Many older Florida homes were built with electrical panels that are now considered unsafe, such as Federal Pacific or Zinsco brands. These panels can fail to trip during an overload, increasing fire risk. What to Look For: Check the brand of the panel, signs of overheating, or flickering lights in the home.  2. Polybutylene Plumbing Used in many homes from the late 1970s to mid-1990s, polybutylene pipes are prone to deterioration and leaking. What to Look For: Pipes label...
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