Odds are that your house-hunting wish list includes the location, number of bedrooms, updated kitchen, and maybe a patio. But the condition of the garage may be an afterthought. After all, you'll just use the space to store your vehicles, right? The garage may just be a storage area, but you need to be on the lookout for hidden problems to make sure you're making the right home investment. Whether you're viewing Klamath homes for sale on video tours or in person, here's what you should look for in the garage.

• Parking Space
  Storing your vehicles in a garage protects them from the elements and vandalism. You don't want to find out after you've purchased the house that the garage cannot accommodate your vehicles. During your showing or virtual tour, be sure to ask about the garage dimension. If you have larger SUVs, recreational equipment, bikes, or a trailer, knowing the size of the garage is essential. Find out the ceiling height and be on the lookout for beams that could provide extra storage for equipment and sporting goods.
  
  
• Garage Door
  Garage doors come in a wide range of materials and styles. When examining the home's garage door, consider the following questions: What is it made up of? Is it a single panel or a roll-up sectional? Does it open manually or with a remote? Test the door for proper opening and closing. Both sides should lift at the same time, and the motor should not be struggling. Check the track and springs to make sure they're in good condition. Also, inspect the safety sensors by placing a large item in the door's path.
  
  
• Roof
  Look for rotted, sagging, or cracked roof framing, as well as the condition of the shingles if the garage is detached. If the roof is poorly installed or maintained, snow and water can seep into the garage, causing damage to the walls, roof framing, and ceiling.
  
  
• Garage Floors
  Usually made of concrete, garage floors are prone to cracking. So, be sure to assess the floor for cracks or crumbling concrete. If the garage has an epoxy floor, check for any evidence of problems because the product tends to mask issues such as stains or spills. Also, the surface should slope away from the house to prevent pooling water.
  
  
• Heating Unit
  Is the garage heated? A heated garage can be a key amenity when temperatures drop drastically in the winter. It'll make it convenient to work on your car in the garage year-round. And even if you prefer taking your car to the mechanic, a heated garage will provide a comfortable place for your DIY garage projects. Also, be sure to check the ventilation in the garage to avoid accidental carbon monoxide poisoning.
  
  
• Lighting
  If there's only one source of light in the garage, you'll want to know if it's possible to add other light fixtures. Ask the agent to show the lighting options, including where the switches are. If the home has an attached garage, get to know if there's a switch inside the house. Also, be sure to inquire about exterior lights on the garage to illuminate the side door, driveway, and walking path to the house.
  
  
• Evidence of Pests
  If the garage has wooden walls, keep a close eye for termites or carpenter ants. If you see trails of sawdust or chewed wood, those could serve as evidence of insect activity. And if you find large quantities of pesticides stored in the garage, the owner has likely had issues with pest infestation. Look for signs of nesting or pest droppings in corners.

Our real estate agents have experienced hundreds of home inspections and can easily point out red flags. If you're searching for a new home, let us help you find the perfect one for your circumstances. Contact us to get started.