Inspections

First major inspection day!

James and I took a day from our offices to meet a slew of inspectors and contractors to get an idea of what we're in for with this renovation. In a blur of an afternoon, we met with our general contractor and assistance, solar expert, electricians, water well expert, pest inspector, roofer and general carpenter, and real estate agent. In total, eleven individuals. Our first party!!!

So far it's been the expected mixture of good and bad news:

• Good news: the foundation is in great shape, as is the copper plumbing under the house.
• Good/bad news: as expected, the roof needs work; however, only minor sections need repair, and the attic space is dry and sound. We want to replace the shingles with metal, but it will be a matter of what's leftover in our budget.
• Bad/good news: The indoor electrical boxes are outdated, and are classified as hazardous. However, the outdoor boxes are in good shape, and will support an external generator and solar-power system.
• Bad news: the hardwood floors we liked downstairs needs to be replaced because they buckled in a few places, and a little warped in a few others.
• Bad news: Those evil beetles that you don't want to hear about from the pest inspector are chewing on a few sections.
• Bad news: The preexisting water well was damaged during a major earthquake, and provides too low of a flow, so a new well needs to be dug.
• Bad news: The patio on one side of the house is too rotten to save.
• Good news: The water tank is in acceptable condition, but we may need to add a second tank at some point.
• No news: Once the water well is pumping, we learn about the septic system.
• Bad news: Most of the windows will need to be replaced due to moisture between their dual panes.
• Good news: The rusted Volvo that's hanging on the side of the hill over the creek, and the two massive metal tank chunks in the creek can be retrieved and salvaged at no cost to us.
• Good news: The general shape and condition of the house is pretty much no worse than expected.
• Good news: We should be closing escrow this week!!!
• Next steps: Applying for the renovation loan...