What to Look for During a Home Inspection in Hudson, WI & the Twin Cities

Buying a home is a major investment—whether you're diving into the Hudson, WI real estate market or exploring homes for sale in the Twin Cities. A home inspection is a key step to make sure you're buying a solid property without expensive surprises waiting down the road.

Here’s a breakdown of the most important things to look for during your home inspection.

1. Structural Integrity: The Backbone of the Home

The foundation holds everything together. Issues here can lead to costly repairs over time.

Watch for:

• Cracks in the foundation, ceilings, or walls

• Uneven floors

• Doors or windows that stick or won’t close properly

• Signs of water damage or settling—especially in older Hudson homes

Local Tip: In the Hudson and St. Croix Valley area, shifting soil and older basements can sometimes cause minor foundation movement. Always have it checked professionally.

2. Plumbing & Water Systems: Keep It Flowing

Plumbing problems can become expensive quickly—especially in older Twin Cities homes.

Check for:

• Strong water pressure in all faucets

• Visible leaks under sinks or around the water heater

• Rust or corrosion on pipes

• Age and condition of the water heater

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to ask when the last major plumbing updates were made.

3. Electrical Systems: Safety First

Older homes in Minnesota and Wisconsin often come with outdated or overloaded electrical systems.

During inspection, confirm:

• All outlets are working and properly grounded

• Electrical panel is up to code and can support modern appliances

• No exposed or unsafe wiring

Stillwater & Minneapolis buyers: Homes built before 1970 might require a panel upgrade or rewiring—something to factor into your budget.

4. HVAC & Insulation: Comfort & Efficiency Matter

Efficient heating and cooling systems can make a huge difference in both comfort and utility bills.

Things to review:

• Age and condition of furnace and AC unit

• Regular maintenance history

• Condition and placement of air filters

• Insulation levels in attic and exterior walls

Local Insight: In Hudson’s colder months, under-insulated homes lead to high heating bills. Don’t overlook this.

5. Roof & Exterior: Protecting Your Investment

The roof is your first line of defense against the elements—especially snow and ice in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Look for:

• Missing or damaged shingles

• Proper flashing around vents and chimneys

• Gutters that are clear and draining away from the home

• Signs of past leaks or water stains on ceilings

Seasonal Note: Roof issues are common after Midwest winters—have the inspector look closely for ice dam damage.

6. Pests & Mold: Hidden Health Hazards

Mold and pests aren’t just annoying—they can also impact your health and home value.

Ask your inspector to check for:

• Mold or mildew in basements, attics, or crawl spaces

• Termite or rodent damage

• Signs of water intrusion or poor ventilation

• Musty smells or discoloration on drywall

Twin Cities buyers: Older homes with poor ventilation are more prone to hidden mold—don’t skip this step!

Why a Local Real Estate Expert Matters

Navigating a home inspection is a lot easier with the right real estate agent by your side. As your local experts in Hudson, WI real estate and Twin Cities homes, we help you:

• Understand inspection results

• Know which issues are serious and which are common

• Negotiate repairs or price adjustments

• Connect with trusted local contractors

We’ve helped dozens of clients in Hudson and Stillwater make smart, confident decisions during their inspections—and we’re happy to do the same for you.

Ready to make a move in Hudson or the surrounding area?
Let’s talk! Contact The Johnson Group at Coldwell Banker Realty today to start your journey.

If you’re unsure what to expect from a home inspection—or need help figuring out next steps—reach out anytime. Whether you're moving to Hudson or looking for homes for sale in the Twin Cities, we’re here to make sure you feel confident and informed every step of the way.

📞 Call or Text The Johnson Group at 651-333-7656
🌐 Browse listings: johnsonhomegroup.com

Let’s make sure your next home is safe, sound, and exactly what you’re looking for.

Written by Mark Johnson, REALTOR® and owner of The Johnson Group at Coldwell Banker Realty. With over 20 years of experience helping clients across Hudson, WI and the Twin Cities, Mark is passionate about delivering expert real estate guidance with a personal touch.