Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make, and a professional home inspection is your best safeguard against unexpected surprises. In British Columbia’s real estate market, due diligence is key, and we always strongly recommend including "subjects" in your contract to protect your interests.
What Are "Subjects" in a Real Estate Contract?
"Subjects" (also known as conditions) are clauses added to a purchase agreement that must be satisfied before the sale is finalized. These protect buyers by ensuring key conditions—such as financing approval, property inspections, and legal reviews—are met before committing to the purchase.
Some common subjects we recommend for buyers in BC include:
✅ Subject to Financing Approval: Ensures your mortgage is secured before the deal closes.
✅ Subject to Home Inspection: Allows time for a professional home inspection to uncover potential issues.
✅ Subject to Strata Document Review: If buying a condo or townhouse, this ensures you can review strata bylaws, financials, and meeting minutes.
✅ Subject to Reviewing Title and Property Disclosure Statement: Helps verify there are no hidden legal concerns or restrictions.
✅ Subject to Fire & Home Insurance Approval: Ensures the property is insurable, which is required for financing.
💡 Expert Tip: Removing subjects too quickly can put you at risk. As your realtor, I always recommend careful review before finalizing a deal.
What Home Inspections Can Reveal
A home inspection can uncover minor maintenance issues or major deal-breakers. Here are some of the most critical areas an inspection covers:
1. Structural Issues & Foundation Problems
🔹 Cracks in walls or floors 🔹 Uneven flooring 🔹 Signs of shifting or sinking
Why It Matters: Structural problems can be extremely costly to fix and may indicate deeper foundation issues.
2. Roofing Concerns
🔹 Missing or curling shingles 🔹 Leaks or water damage in the attic 🔹 Poor drainage or clogged gutters
Why It Matters: Roof replacements can cost tens of thousands of dollars. A damaged roof can also lead to interior water damage.
3. Plumbing & Water Damage
🔹 Leaks under sinks or behind walls 🔹 Water stains on ceilings or floors 🔹 Poor water pressure or outdated plumbing materials
Why It Matters: Hidden leaks can lead to mold growth and costly repairs.
4. Electrical Issues
🔹 Outdated or unsafe wiring 🔹 Overloaded electrical panels 🔹 Flickering lights or non-functioning outlets
Why It Matters: Electrical hazards can be a major safety risk and require costly upgrades.
5. HVAC & Insulation Deficiencies
🔹 Furnace or air conditioning malfunctions 🔹 Poor insulation (causing high energy bills) 🔹 Mold or mildew in ducts
Why It Matters: Heating and cooling systems are expensive to replace, and poor insulation can make the home uncomfortable year-round.
When to Walk Away From a Home Purchase
While no home is perfect, some red flags may indicate it’s better to walk away rather than take on significant risk:
🚩 Major Structural Issues – Foundation problems or significant repairs that could cost tens of thousands.
🚩 Undisclosed Water Damage or Mold – Hidden moisture can cause long-term health and structural issues.
🚩 Extensive Electrical or Plumbing Deficiencies – Fixing these can be costly and require tearing into walls.
🚩 Uninsurable or Unpermittable Work – If a home has unauthorized renovations, lenders and insurers may refuse coverage.
🚩 Strata or Legal Issues – If strata financials are weak or a property has legal complications, reconsider your investment.
Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself with a Solid Contract
In British Columbia, it’s crucial to include subjects in your contract to allow time for a thorough home inspection and other due diligence steps. While it’s tempting to rush into a deal in a competitive market, protecting yourself now can save you from costly regrets later.
As a dedicated BC real estate expert, I, Omeed Ghafori, ensure my clients make informed and confident home-buying decisions. If you're buying a home in South Surrey, White Rock, or the Lower Mainland, let’s work together to find a home that’s truly right for you!
📞 Call or text me at 778-316-7506 to discuss your home-buying plans. 🌍 Visit www.OmeedGhafori.com for expert real estate advice and listings.
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