Respect Your Buyers’ Intelligence!

Never underestimate the intelligence of buyers even if they strike you as
inexperienced, first time buyers.  Since governments have stepped into the
domain of real estate, they are now warning home buyers about potential
environmental dangers lurking inside houses. So what aspects of home buying
are governed by regulations? Ilyce Glink warns that most professional house
inspectors are not qualified to do special tests for toxic substances, although more
and more individuals are specializing in these types of home testing. 4
Radon – the US government reported in 1989 that radon was the cause of
22,000 deaths per year and that it is the second leading cause of lung
cancer in the US after cigarette smoking. Radon is an odourless, natural
gas that comes from the earth and seeps through cracks in the house or its
foundation.

Asbestos – Glink says that if your home was built after 1980, there is no
need to worry about asbestos. This is a microscopic fiber that escapes to
the air and is ingested by humans through their noses and mouths. Buyers
who have lingering fears about asbestos may demand a written report
stating that the house is asbestos-free.


Lead – Paints and water can contain high levels of lead that are harmful,
particularly to children.  Their physical and mental development is
affected when they are exposed to this substance. Lead paint and lead in
water are usually found in older homes (pre 70’s). Pipes in older homes
for example that were soldered together with lead can transmit lead
particles into the water system

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The Buyer’s Perspective