How to Sell a House with Foundation Issues in Houston

It can be more difficult selling a house with foundation issues.  There are a few important things you need to consider.

What Causes Foundation Problems

Most foundation problems are directly related to the type of soil that is underneath houses in Houston, it does not mean that the home has been neglected. 

However, there are 4 other primary culprits:

·        Poor drainage

·        Poor watering

·        Trees

·        Plumbing leaks.

Signs a House Needs Foundation Repair

Houses settle over time, and a little unevenness isn’t a cause for panic.  However, if it starts shifting too much, you’ll want to be alert to the potential warning signs.  Here are some things to look for that could indicate potential foundation problems:

·         Cracks in the drywall

·         Doors and windows that are misaligned or stick and won’t shut

·         Uneven or sloping floors

·         Cracks in in exterior brick

·         Gaps between the walls and ceiling

If any of the above is present, you’ll want to schedule a professional foundation evaluation.  If problems are present that require correction, you can arrange for repairs before selling your home or try listing your house “as-is.”  Keep in mind, this will likely mean a lower price.

Disclose The Property Foundation Issue

 The issues need to be listed on the seller’s disclosure if you are listing your house, along with any other known defects.  Most people will also have an inspection of the house to look for issues or damage.  This is a legal document, and knowingly hiding foundation damage could get you in legal trouble.  Sometimes banks may not finance a home with significant foundation issues.

Foundation Repair

If you think you may need foundation repair, it’s a good idea to get a report from a structural engineer.  A structural engineer will take detailed measurements of any movement in a home’s foundation and create a diagram with the recommended number and location of piers to level the foundation.  Once you have the report from the engineer, you can provide that to the foundation company.

Depending on the extent of movement, the repairs can be simple or a major event that can also damage plumbing lines beneath the foundation.  There are exterior piers around the perimeter of the house, and also interior piers that can be installed via tunnels under the home or breakouts made directly in the slab in the interior of the home.  After the piers are installed, the entire foundation and structure will be slowly lifted so the foundation can be supported by the piers. 

Sell to a Direct Buyer

If you would rather skip the hassle of fixing the foundation issue or dealing with retail buyers potentially walking away due to foundation issues, we can buy your home!

To work with Absolute Properties or to simply learn more contact us by clicking here.