Most first time home buyers don’t realize that there’s still much to do when buying a house. Well, sometimes it’s easy to say “Oh I could just repaint the walls or maybe install new wallpapers” or “No worries I’ll buy a new AC anyway I think that’ll do. I don’t need a home inspection. I think I can close the deal now.” Did you know that being a cheapskate can sometimes lead to bigger trouble? Here’s why: NO HOME IS PERFECT. Every home will always need a home inspection. It doesn’t matter if it’s newly constructed or a century-old, you still need to call your local home inspector and schedule an appointment.
It’s pretty easy to understand why most homebuyers do not opt for an inspection. There are many myths out there that surround this idea and they don’t know what to expect from it. However, let’s correct that and start thinking on the brighter side. Here’s what you need to know and what to expect from a home inspection.
Finding A Home Inspector
First, you need to find a trusted home inspector. Unfortunately, most homebuyers, especially first-timers, don’t realize that it’s their responsibility to look for an inspector. Well, of course, there are referrals from your agent but it’s your home after all so it’s also your call. Choose whoever you think is best, whether it be a recommendation or personal research. What’s important is he’s qualified and licensed. Some states require home inspectors to have certifications but some also don’t. However, for those states that do not require, you can look up in organizations such as the American Society of Home Inspectors. Membership in such an organization can give you assurance about the inspector’s professionalism.
It’s also important that you don’t go rushing about hiring an inspector. Take the time to interview them and ask about their experiences and familiarity with the type of home you’re buying. Also, ask what’s included in the inspection and the details in the report.
What to Expect from A Home Inspection
A home inspection is a non-invasive physical examination. A home inspector thoroughly examines and evaluates the physical structures of the home and all its components. The examination includes an evaluation of the following:
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing systems
- Heating and Cooling
- Radon Testing (this can be a stand-alone test or contingent to air quality testing, depending on the inspection company)
- Walls, Ceiling, and Flooring
- Windows, Doors
- Roofing
- Attic
- Foundation
- Basement, Crawlspace
- Insulation
What’s good about a home inspection is that you get to see the conditions of the home through the eyes of a neutral third party. Aside from that, an inspection uncovers problems, damages, maintenance, and safety issues that might be costly to repair or need replacement. However, areas that are no longer accessible to the inspector might need a separate or additional inspection such as wells and septic tanks.
Inspection Report
The home inspector submits a comprehensive report within 24 hours following the inspection. This report includes about 50 to 100 issues most of which are relatively small issues that can be easily fixed. It also includes details such as the severity of issue and how much it would cost to fix each problem. You can ask the inspector for clarification. If you find the issues are more than you can handle, you can either back out or negotiate with the seller to work on the repairs or lower the price of the property.
Now that you have an idea of what a home inspection is, it’s best to schedule it right away. You deserve the peace of mind. Choose the wise decision and call your local home inspector today!
SEC Inspection Services has been providing Home Inspections and Insurance Inspections (4.0 & Mitigation) on Residential and Commercial Properties.
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