Resources for real estate agents

Realtor Resources

Short, plain-language guides from VM Engineering for agents who run into foundation questions during a listing or a sale — what to look for, who to call, and what the tests actually tell you.

This information comes from our direct experience as professional engineers in southeastern Wisconsin.

Foundations for realtors — three-part series

  1. Illustration: magnifying glass over a cracked block wall with a PE sealPart 1 of 3

    When to Call an Engineer About a Foundation

    An unbiased opinion, a stamped report, site-specific design and permits — plus the red flags on a showing and when the Wisconsin code requires an engineer.
  2. Illustration: house for sale with the basement outlined and a checklistPart 2 of 3

    Pre-Listing Foundation Assessment: Get Ahead of the Inspection

    A walk-through checklist, how to prepare for a drain tile test, and a table of common findings with typical repairs.
  3. Section drawing of a post interior drain tile replacement systemPart 3 of 3

    What Is a Drain Tile Test? The Whole System, Explained

    The five parts of a basement drainage system, how the test is done under the Wisconsin code, what the blockage ratings mean — and what the test cannot tell you.

Written for education, not for diagnosis. If a foundation needs a number on it or a repair design, contact us — Vince Matarrese, PE or Cory Wotachek, PE, VM Engineering LTD.