Home Inspections

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Did you know that a home inspection is an important part of transferring home ownership from a seller to a buyer?  Plus, home inspections are definitely in the best interest of both parties involved.

What Do Home Inspectors Actually Do?

A good home inspector will check out the home's plumbing system, electrical system, furnace & air conditioning, and look for structural problems. They will should note things like a damp basement, and leaky windows also. Inspections will report needed repairs and or replacements that should be made, so you buyers and sellers avoid surprises.

When getting a home inspection, you should remember that it does not  "pass" or "fail", and the home inspector will not tell you whether he thinks the home is worth the money, or if you should or shouldn't buy it.  Their job is to make you aware of repairs that they or deem necessary.

Home Inspection For Home Sellers

We often hear of the home buyer having an inspection prior to the purchase of a home, and it’s typically shown as a contingency on the contract. However, in some cases sellers will have a home inspection before they put the house on the market. This helps them to find out if there are any issues with the property’s condition that may hinder their sale.


Home Inspection For Home Buyers

In almost all the real estate transactions that I’ve been involved with, buyers have a home inspection to find out exactly what they are considering buying. Usually the buyer calls an inspector right after they made an offer on the home.  The seller is then often willing to renegotiate the purchase price or give the buyer a credit to accommodate any needed repairs. It is also important to remember that before you sign an offer, you should make sure it includes an inspection clause that says your home purchase is contingent on the results of a professional home inspection.

For potential buyers, home inspections provide valuable information about the home. Things like where main utility shutoff valves are, and how the house operates are usually discussed between the buyer and inspector. It is not required, but it is definitely to your advantage to be with the home inspector during the inspection. It's a great way to get answers to some questions you may have, tips for maintenance, and general information that could help you when you move into your new home. Most importantly, you can see the home through the eyes of a qualified, objective professional.  I can help you choose a good home inspector in the area–one that has been certified by a trade association.

In addition to the home inspection, think about having separate tests conducted to check for the presence of radon gas and termites.  

Contact me for more information!

 

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