Roofs

[Craig L.]

Roofs confuse me.

I know that issues with a roof can make or break a deal or turn a big profit into a loss, but I'm a bit lost in the roof lingo. When a listing claims "new roof" can this mean multiple things? And what does a "new tear-off roof" mean, if something different?

I'm told it only costs $1.5-3k to put new shingles on a roof. And I'm also told it costs a whole bunch more if you have to repair/replace the actual hardware of the roof. What warrants either one, and what is the best way to evaluate a roof when you're looking at a property? Can your average general contractor find roof problems?

Thanks for any help!