Hidden Dangers Unveiled: The Importance of Mold Testing in Home Inspections

A professional home inspection thoroughly evaluates the observable condition and function of a property prior to purchase. But some threats lurk out of sight where only targeted testing can detect them — like potentially hazardous mold growth. Mold is a silent intruder that can compromise both the structural integrity of your home and the health and well-being of your household. Certain strains of fungi can rot wood or cause asthma-like symptoms and breathing [...]

2023-11-27T10:55:04-06:00November 27th, 2023|Home Tips|

Chicago Bungalows: A Guide to Assessing the Unique Characteristics of this Iconic Architecture

Photo credit: ThShriver via Wikimedia The city of Chicago is known as the birthplace of modern architecture and offers some of the most forward-thinking designs of the 20th century.  One of the area’s most iconic styles, with their instantly recognizable brick exteriors and pitched roofs, Chicagoland’s bungalows present a ubiquitous architectural style across the city’s neighborhoods and beyond. Between 1910 and 1940, over 100,000 were constructed in Cook County and over 20,000 are [...]

2023-10-18T10:39:33-05:00October 18th, 2023|Home Tips|

Chicago’s Basement Blues: How a Home Inspection Can Detect and Address Common Basement Issues

When it comes to buying a home in Chicago, basements can be both a blessing and a burden.  They can be one of the most useful and versatile areas in a home, providing storage, recreation space, laundry facilities, and a safe, warm place to create memories with your family. However, basements are also prone to a variety of problems that can make them unusable, unsafe, or detract from their value and enjoyment.  Let’s [...]

2023-10-05T12:46:57-05:00October 5th, 2023|Home Tips|

The Top 5 Benefits of Including a Sewer Scope in Your Chicago Home Inspection

Plumbing problems can turn into a homeowner's worst nightmare. Costly repairs, inconvenience, and unpleasant surprises are enough to make any homeowner cringe.  While the inspection process allows buyers or current owners to learn about the condition of the home, one essential aspect that's often overlooked is the sewer system. A sewer scope inspection might not be required by InterNACHI's Home Inspection Standards of Practice, but it can be a game-changer, giving you peace [...]

2023-08-16T11:37:58-05:00August 16th, 2023|Home Tips|

Inspecting Your Roof: What Chicago Homeowners Need to Know

One of the most essential systems of your home is your roof. It’s your first line of defense against Chicagoland’s unpredictable and sometimes harsh weather, vastly improves your home's energy efficiency, and adds value to your property.  However, to ensure that your roof continues to function properly, it's important to have it inspected regularly and perform regular maintenance. If you’re buying a new home or preparing to sell one, you’ll definitely want to [...]

2023-07-05T11:06:33-05:00July 5th, 2023|Home Tips|

The Hazards of Owning a Home with Concrete or Split Face Block

Chicagoland has always been a center of exciting architectural developments and has seen several building booms throughout its history. In the late 1990s, as demand for affordable residential housing skyrocketed, many single-family homes and condominium developments utilized concrete block, or its fancier cousin, split faced block. Split faced block is simply an inexpensive 16” concrete block split into two 8” pieces, each with a roughened face that resembles much more costly rock masonry. [...]

2023-06-07T10:47:49-05:00June 7th, 2023|Home Tips|

Home Inspections and Electrical Systems: What You Need to Know

Your electrical system is an absolutely critical part of your home. It powers the HVAC that protects your family from extreme weather, enables you to enjoy music, gaming, and your favorite shows, and makes it possible to cook, clean, and store your food safely.  Faulty wiring and other related problems can create a severe safety hazard. According to the National Fire Protection Association, house fires due to electrical failure or malfunction cause thousands [...]

2023-04-12T14:32:30-05:00April 12th, 2023|Home Tips|

How to Prepare for A Spring Home Inspection

Spring is almost here and soon you’ll see delightfully warmer temperatures, tulips blooming along Michigan Avenue, and cherry blossoms in Jackson Park — along with possible building damage caused by Chicagoland’s brutal winter weather. It’s also the perfect time to schedule a thorough inspection of your home by a licensed and experienced professional. Regular inspections are a crucial part of maintaining the value of your property, ensuring your family stays safe, and protecting [...]

2023-03-13T11:37:34-05:00March 13th, 2023|Home Tips|

What to Expect When Buying a Historic Home

Are you dreaming of owning an elegant Victorian mansion, a Queen Anne cottage with soaring ceilings, a classic Arts & Crafts bungalow, or a stunning Mediterranean Revival residence from the roaring 20s? Chicagoland has tens of thousands of gorgeous historic places and is a fierce competitor for the title of “the architecture capital of the world.” The Oak Park community boasts more buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright than anywhere else in the [...]

2023-02-17T10:58:48-06:00February 17th, 2023|Home Tips|
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