With an affordable housing market and plenty of scenery, Missouri is a great state to call home. Whether moving to this state or just moving into a new home, you’re likely to see more than a few potential properties. Sometimes, these houses could contain an unwanted surprise in the form of damage by wood-destroying termites.
Have a professional assess the damage
At this point, have an exterminator or other qualified professional inspect the affected property for an active termite infestation. A general home inspector is well-equipped to find and prevent issues from becoming real estate law matters. But, considering how well termites can hide and how deep an invasion can be, an exterminator’s knowledge and tools can provide much help.
If a pest inspector notes only minor property damage or a small number of termites, one extermination session could eliminate termites for good. In this case, you’d only deal with a small delay in closing on this home. You may also receive bad news that your potential new home has a severe termite infestation.
Determine if the costs are worth paying
According to national averages, paying to repair a small termite infestation will cost an estimated $1,000 to $2,500. More severe termite damage can weaken the structural integrity of homes. If termites reach a home’s wooden structural supports and joists, you could pay four to five figures to resolve such extensive damage.
Homeowners expect to pay additional costs here and there to move into a new place. If you find a must-own home within your budget, paying to remove termites might be the right decision. But severe termite damage could cost a sizeable fraction of the home you plan to buy. At that point, the smartest move may be to pass up the property.