Tips & Trends for the Flagstaff Real Estate Market:
Past Articles [April 2004]
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The Cost of Termites in Your Home
In the past I have written about the cost of termite damage in our homes. Because of some recent experiences with the little critters I feel that now is a good time to address the issue again. In several transactions that I have been involved with since the first of the year there has been active infestation in the homes. Other agents have experienced the same situation. It would seem that there is an increase in termite activity; why is anybody’s guess.
If you are in the market to buy property you should consider the possibility that there are termites in the structure especially if it is an older home. Even if you are not in the market I would suggest that you have your home inspected periodically so that you can avoid a major expense somewhere down the road. The cost of an annual inspection is minimal and it could save you a lot of money and anguish in the future.
An annual inspection will cost a home owner $60-$100. The cost to eliminate termites generally costs $.50 to $.75 per square foot depending on the type of chemical used. If you are building a home you can ask your contractor to pre treat the house foot print. Pre treatment costs are $.25 and $.35 per square foot and I have been told that it is very effective.
The Arizona Association of Realtors Residential Resale Purchase Contract provides that a Wood Infestation Report (WIR) be conducted on a property prior to close of escrow. The WIR is a document prepared by a licensed pest control company that informs the buyer of the results of the inspection. It is a two page document that describes the property and discusses areas of concern such as conditions that are conducive to providing habitat for termites and the location of live infestation if termites are present.
If you are buying a home I always recommend that you require an inspection and ask the seller to mitigate any problems found during that inspection. This not only gives you piece of mind about the property you are purchasing but protects the seller in the event that infestation is discovered after the purchase is finalized.
If you have questions or concerns about your home I advise that you contact one of our local pest control company’s. They are very knowledgeable about what actions you may need to undertake.
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