The seller’s market in the
real estate
industry today has created a contest for home buyers. Today, we don’t talk about how many “days” a home has been on the market; rather we speak about how many “hours”
a home has been on the market. The buyer with the most cash who jumps the quickest seals the deal. To jump the quickest, some home buyers are cutting corners to win the prize. If you skip a home inspection to expedite the close, you could sadly be reminded of your poor decision for years.
A home inspection from a professional will bring to light problems with a home you may not have noticed. The importance of home inspections cannot be stressed enough because it will protect you from unfavorable surprises in the future. When problems are found, you could require the seller to fix them before you buy, or they could reduce the selling price to cover repairs. You may choose to avoid the issues altogether and look for another home, but the home inspection cost just saved you from a more costly mistake.
Become an informed buyer with an unbiased professional assessment of the home you are interested in buying; the cost for a home inspection is worth the price and will save you from a decision you could regret.
So, What Happens During a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is similar to taking a used car to a mechanic so s/he can check it out before you buy it. A professional home inspector will point out visible repairs that are recommended and will spot potential problems that are not seen. You certainly would want to stay clear of a home with foundation or electrical problems.
You don’t need to be present for the home inspection but it would be a great learning experience. You could shadow the inspector through the inspection process, asking questions, jotting down notes, and taking pictures. You are about to make a major investment that will affect your finances, so the more you know- all the better.
It’s important to know that a home inspection is not a written guarantee that the house is in good condition. Essentially, a home inspection is a professional report of the
condition of the house so you can make an informed decision when buying a home.
What Does a Home Inspector Look For?
So, what happens during a home inspection?
From the outside, a home inspection will check physical structures such as the roof, attic spaces, garage, foundation, and the driveway. Structural soundness from the inside will also be a part of a home inspection. The floors, windows, doors and walls will be inspected for cracks, water damage, and other signs of trouble.
Home inspections will carefully check utilities and essential systems needed for a well-functioning home. You will receive a detailed report of the electrical lines and the gas service. Faucets will be tested to check the water flow along with the cold and hot water output. Included with a home inspection will be a basic performance check of major appliances including the fridge, dishwasher, stove, and toilets.
As a home buyer, it’s important to know what a home inspection does not cover. A home inspection report does not cover issues connected to mold, asbestos, radon gas, lead paint or pest damage such as termites. If any of the above problems are suspected, a specialist for those areas should be consulted.
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
Just to give you a “ballpark” idea for a home inspection cost, the national average is around $330. As with most estimates, the cost will vary according to your location and the size of the house. Ask friends, family and neighbors who they would recommend for a home inspection and while searching for a recommendation you will also get a better idea of how much it will cost you.
A home inspection is just one more thing to
pay for when buying a house; and it’s tempting to skip the task to save a little more. But knowledge is power and for a home inspection, that knowledge can save you thousands of dollars in future repairs. Put yourself in charge and hire your own home inspection instead of relying on the seller to pay; the inspector will be accountable to you this way.
How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
It usually takes around 2-3 hours for a home inspection to be completed. Older homes and larger homes will require more time to thoroughly inspect. The importance of a home inspection is well worth the time it takes to complete. If you follow the inspector around for the home inspection, you will know where important home features such as your water shut-off valve and electrical box are located.
What Should You Do After Receiving Your Home Inspection Report?
It can take several days to receive the report from your home inspection. Read the complete report once you have received it. A summary of the report will describe any problems and safety issues that were discovered. You may be alerted to problems that will require additional investigations. Your home inspection report will assist you in
negotiations with the seller for repairs or credits for before the final sale.
Ready to Buy or Sell Your Home? Contact Landmark Realty Today!
Home buyers and sellers alike should always get a home inspection. The home you wish to buy may look beautiful and perfect- but is it really? A home inspection will
protect a buyer’s investment. For home sellers, a home inspection will eliminate any roadblocks to the sale and new repairs or replacements can justify a higher selling price.
Landmark Realty and Auction
is committed to building lasting relationships by looking out for your best interest when buying or selling a home. We are committed to equipping you with valuable information and assistance for all your real estate needs. As your advocate, we are here to help you buy or sell your home right away – the right way!
