Survey: More than half of homeowners report housing problems after construction boom

A recent Angie's List poll found that more than half of people who built a home during the housing boom later found problems with it. The consumer review group encourages people to hire a home inspector before buying a place, especially if you are considering buying a home built between 1999 and 2007.

"During the housing boom, houses were going up fast and furious. So fast that code inspectors were having trouble keeping up with the housing," said Angie Hicks of Angie's List.

Some of the problems mentioned include poor drywall and carpentry work, structural and plumbing troubles, bad roofing jobs, insufficient insulation and dangerous electrical wiring. A reputable home inspector will be able to point out any of these issues and could help save thousands of dollars in unwanted repairs.

Angie's List tips for hiring a home builder:

-Research the company as thoroughly as you can prior to entering into a contract. Use Angie's List to learn about how the home builder dealt with others in your area. Walk away if you learn something that makes you question the builder's ability to complete the job.

-Take a look at projects your builder has in the works. If progress seems to be halted or slow going, it could be a sign of trouble. Also, ask for the names of the company's most recent buyers. Ask them about their experience with the builder and the builder's responsiveness. They might let you even come over and look at their home.

-Check with your local courthouse for liens against the builder from subcontractors who have not been paid. That is a big warning sign of financial instability.