Home Inspections Prevent Future Headaches

How would you feel if you had just bought your dream home only to discover the next time that we had one of those torrential Florida downpours that your home had roof leaks? Or after you move in and are ready to take a nice hot shower and to your dismay, the only water that is coming out of the showerhead is ice cold. Or suppose that when you turn down the AC the only gust of air that comes out of the vents is HOT air?. The best way to avoid unpleasant surprises like these is to arrange for a home inspection before you buy.

Home Inspections Help You Avoid Unpleasant Surprises

A good home inspection by an independent third party is an objective, top-to-bottom examination of a home and everything that comes with it. The standard inspection report includes a review of the home’s heating and air-conditioning systems; plumbing and wiring; roof, attic, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, foundation, basement and pest control.

Getting a professional inspection is imperative for older homes because age often takes its toll on the roof and other hard-to-reach areas. Problems can also be the result of neglect or poorly done repair work, such as a past owner’s failed attempt to install lights and an outlet in a linen closet.

A home inspection is also a wise investment when buying a new home. In fact, new homes frequently have defects, whether caused by an oversight during construction or simply human error.

Getting an Inspector

Make sure to get an unbiased inspector. You can find one through word-of-mouth referrals, or look in the Yellow Pages or online under “Building Inspection” or “Home Inspection.”

Although home inspections can cost several hundred dollars this is really money well spent. Think of it as an investment in your investment – your future home.

New home builders may try to dissuade you from getting a home inspection on a home they’ve built. They may not necessarily be trying to hide anything because most builders guarantee their work and will fix any problems in your new home before you move in. Some builders, in fact, will offer to do their own inspections. But it’s best to have an objective professional appraisal – insist on a third-party inspector.

An Inspection Will Educate You about Your House

Another good reason for a home inspection is that you will be getting an education. Most buyers really want to learn as much as they can about their purchase so they can protect their investment. An examination by an impartial home inspector helps in this learning process.

Ask if you can follow the home inspector on his or her rounds. Most inspectors are glad to share their knowledge, and you’ll be able to ask plenty of questions.

Inspection Scheduling and Results

Once your purchase agreement has been accepted by the seller, it is time to schedule your inspection. Homebuyers usually have up to 15 days after the Effective Date (Inspection Period) to have inspection done. The results may be available immediately or within a few days. The home inspector will review their findings with you and alert you to any costly or potentially hazardous conditions. In some cases, you may be advised not to buy the home unless such problems are remedied.

Additionally, you could have included a clause in your purchase agreement that makes your purchase contingent upon satisfactory inspection results. If major problems are found, you can back out of the contract. Additionally, if costly repairs are warranted, the seller may be willing to adjust the home’s price or the contract’s terms. Typically when there are only minor repairs needed, the buyer and seller can usually work out an agreement that won’t affect the sale price.