Are you beginning the process of buying a home? When going through your checklist of “must-haves” for the new home, you might want to think beyond how many bathrooms, bedrooms and if there is hardwood throughout. We’re talking about some things the previous homeowners may leave behind. No, not objects, but bugs and pests.
Termites and other pests don’t help pay the mortgage. These “residents” can cause a whole host of problems. Home buying can be an exciting, yet stressful time for anyone, especially first-time homebuyers. Put your worries aside, because our experts at Clark Exterminating put together a guide of questions to ask and what to look for when you’re purchasing a home when it comes to pests.
Search for evidence.
If a home has a termite infestation, there will be a few signs that these pests have taken up residence in a home. Termites will create “mud tunnels” or “shelter tubes” around the foundation of a home from their nest to their food supply. They’ll also shed their wings, which can later be found in spider webs and surfaces around a home’s foundation.
If there are rodents in the home, you’ll know pretty quickly. They are very messy and you’ll be able to tell if they are bunking in the home. Look for droppings, chewed wires or chewed pieces of paper. If you see some of these signs of pests, ask the realtor to disclose any additional details about what might be lurking around the home.
Ask for details.
You’ve put in an offer on a home and it’s been accepted, now what? Most homes should have an agreement with a termite or pest control company contracted to do termite inspections. However, it’s important to note that just because a contract exists doesn’t mean it’s been kept up.
A small termite or pest problem can turn into a big problem in a hurry. There’s no such thing as asking too many questions when it comes to buying a home. Homes cost a lot of money and are your biggest investment. You want to make sure you are making a good, and correct, decision.
Have an inspection.
After you make an offer on a home, an inspection will be done. Do this inspection as soon as possible. Make sure the inspector is looking for any possible evidence of pest or termite infestation. If there is any indication of termites or any other structure-damaging pest, it is completely acceptable to forego your offer and begin the hunt for a different home.
Once you’ve bought your first home, make sure the termite contract on the house is up to date. If not, you’ll want to set one up immediately. Whether it’s termites, cockroaches, rodents or anything in between, Clark Exterminating is the team to call. The Clark Exterminating team has been taking care of homes in Arkansas since 1980. We are here to help and answer any questions you may have about pest control or any of the treatments we offer at Clark. Even if you’re not a first-time homebuyer we’d be glad to be the team you call on in a time of need. Give us a call today for a quote.
Little Rock: 501-228-0322
North Little Rock: 501-758-0322
Conway: 501-329-0396
Benton: 501-776-1388
Bryant: 501-847-1388
Jacksonville/Cabot: 501-843-1322
Hot Springs: 501-623-2335
