Shaya Seidenfeld Shares What to Look for During a Property Inspection

A house can look picture-perfect on the surface—fresh paint, beautiful staging, maybe even a brand-new kitchen. But real estate veteran Shaya Seidenfeld, who’s spent over 20 years helping buyers and investors, will tell you this: looks can be deceiving.

A property inspection is your best shot at seeing what lies beneath the surface. It’s not just a checkbox—it’s a deep dive into the home's health. Done right, it could save you thousands. Miss the signs, and you could be stuck with a money pit.

Why You Should Never Skip a Home Inspection

It doesn’t matter if it’s your first home or your tenth—every buyer benefits from a solid inspection.

As Shaya puts it, “A good inspection is like an x-ray. It shows you the truth before you make a commitment.”

It can help you:

• Discover structural flaws or major repair needs

• Understand the age and wear of key systems (roof, HVAC, plumbing)

• Catch moisture, mold, or pest issues early

• Negotiate repairs or price adjustments

• Feel confident in your investment

What to Look for During a Property Inspection (According to Shaya Seidenfeld)

When walking through a home with your inspector, keep your eyes and ears open. Shaya encourages buyers to stay involved, take notes, and ask questions.

Let’s go through the major areas you don’t want to overlook.

1. Foundation and Structural Integrity

Cracks happen. But not all cracks are created equal.
Here’s what Shaya suggests watching for:

• Deep or stair-step cracks in the foundation

• Doors that stick or don’t close flush

• Sloping or uneven floors

• Visible water stains in the basement

These can indicate movement, settling, or worse—foundation issues that cost serious money to fix.

2. The Roof: Overhead and Often Overlooked

It’s easy to forget the roof until it leaks.

Key things to look at:

• Are there missing or curling shingles?

• Is the flashing around vents and chimneys sealed tight?

• Any sagging spots or signs of water damage inside?

• How old is the roof? (If it’s over 15 years, you’ll want a closer look.)

A worn-out roof can lead to mold, structural damage, and unexpected expenses.

3. Electrical Systems: Safety First

Old wiring is more than outdated—it can be dangerous.

Shaya recommends checking:

• If the electrical panel looks modern and up to code

• If there are any exposed wires in the attic or basement

• Light switches and outlets—do they work? Feel warm?

• Any flickering lights or inconsistent power?

A licensed inspector will open the panel and look for proper grounding and capacity.

4. Plumbing: Hidden Leaks and Water Trouble

Water issues often hide behind walls or under floors. But the signs are there if you know what to look for:

• Low water pressure from faucets or showerheads

• Rusty water or corroded pipes

• Water stains on ceilings, under sinks, or around toilets

• A slow or noisy water heater

Don’t be afraid to run every tap and flush every toilet. Seriously—it’s better to know now.

5. HVAC System: Comfort and Cost

No one wants to move in and immediately replace the heating or cooling system.

Shaya suggests checking:

• Does the system turn on quickly and quietly?

• Is there airflow in every room?

• Any signs of leaking or excess dust around vents?

• When was the unit last serviced?

Ask the seller for maintenance records—it’s a small detail that reveals a lot.

Exterior Matters Too

Buyers often focus on interiors—but don’t skip the outside.

Shaya’s advice:

• Check siding for cracks, rot, or signs of pests

• Look at driveways and walkways for settling or major cracks

• Make sure gutters are clean and sloped properly

• Walk around the property after rain (if you can) to see drainage patterns

Poor drainage is one of the biggest culprits behind foundation issues.

Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore

Some issues are fixable. Others might be deal breakers. Watch out for:

• Overpowering air fresheners (could mask odor problems)

• Fresh paint only in specific spots (possible cover-up)

• Lots of small, recent repairs (a sign the seller is patching rather than fixing)

• Moldy smells or visible mildew

As Shaya Seidenfeld says, “If something feels off, don’t ignore your instincts. That’s usually your best signal.”

What to Do After the Inspection

You’ll get a full inspection report within a day or two. It’s not unusual to see a long list—it’s the serious stuff that matters.

From there, you can:

• Ask the seller to make key repairs

• Request a credit or price reduction

• Walk away if major structural issues appear

It’s your leverage point. Use it wisely.

Conclusion: Don’t Buy Blind—Let the Inspection Guide You

In the fast-moving world of real estate, it’s tempting to rush things. But skipping or skimming over a property inspection can lead to regrets.

With Shaya Seidenfeld’s seasoned advice, you’ll know what to watch for, what questions to ask, and how to read between the lines.
Because buying a home is more than choosing paint colors—it’s about making sure your investment is sound.

FAQs

Q1: Is it worth getting an inspection on a brand-new home?

A: Yes. Even new construction can have hidden problems—especially rushed or poor workmanship.

Q2: What’s the average cost of a home inspection?

A: Typically between $300–$600 depending on the size and location of the property.

Q3: Should I be present during the inspection?

A: Absolutely. You’ll learn more by seeing issues firsthand and asking the inspector questions.

Q4: Can I bring in a specialist if something seems wrong?

A: Yes. Roofers, electricians, or plumbers can give you more detailed estimates.

Q5: What if the seller refuses to negotiate after the inspection?

A: That’s a red flag. You may need to walk away—or be ready to take on repairs yourself.