Many buyers try to skip thorough home inspection, only to end up regretting it later when problems become apparent; however, this is one of the most important steps before purchasing a home. Be sure to have a good home inspection done.
A home inspection is a professional and objective evaluation of the current condition of a house. Home inspections are typically part of the home buying process, most often performed at the request of the buyer. It can protect the buyer from unseen issues and may sometimes even be required by the buyer’s bank to protect it from risky investments. A seller may be asked to effect repairs, to pay for the repairs or to renegotiate the sale price, in the event problems are found.
Sometimes a home seller requests the service prior to putting it on the market, so that problems with a house may be addressed.
Considerable knowledge of common home repairs and their costs should be acquired by a good home inspector. A professional home inspection is most valuable because it is unbiased and knowledgeable. According to industry accepted standards, a quality home inspection is non-invasive when performed. No holes will be drilled or walls removed by the inspector.
Inspection of the following areas is normal:
It is possible for the roof to be problematic. The general structure of the roof that can be readily accessed for viewing should be inspected, as well as the general shingle condition, flashings, gutters and downspouts.
The exterior of the home should be viewed for defects in siding, flashings, brick, or other wall coverings; check the fit of the doors and windows; porches and steps for proper rails and general conditions including rot; something that may affect the structure of the house is the surface drainage. Cracks and out of square door frames may be signs of shifting, make sure they check for this; evidence of penetrating water.
The cost of a professional quality home inspection, given the value added by its reliability and certainty, is worth every penny and a small part of a real estate transaction’s overall cost. Not knowing can cost considerably more.
A home inspector looks at many things. Problems with the home will be identified by the inspection report. The findings will be described in straightforward language, often with pictures. The home inspector may visit the home with the client to point out the various findings in person.
The cost of a professional quality home inspection varies according to the size and the age of the house, but is usually in a range between $250-$500. The prospective client must determine if the inspection follows all industry accepted standards, if a special deal at a lower cost is offered.
If you are a seller, an inspection can help you market your house more effectively. You may be able to make some minor repairs which will pay off in getting a better price. An inspection may warn you of unnoticed and potentially costly repairs which will be needed for the house, if you are a buyer. Some might break the deal. But if you go ahead, you can get the very best deal by having the inspector’s evaluation.
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