It is your responsibility
to be an informed buyer. Be sure that what you buy is satisfactory in every
respect. You have the right to carefully examine your potential new home with a
qualified home inspector. You may arrange to do so before signing your contract,
or may do so after signing the contract as long as your contract states that the
sale of the home depends on the inspection.
A home inspection gives the
buyer more detailed information than an appraisal – information that you need to
make a wise decision. In a home inspection, a qualified inspector (I recommend a
structural engineer) takes an in-depth, unbiased look at your potential new home
to:
Evaluate the physical
condition: structure, construction and mechanical systems
Identify items that need
to be repaired or replaced.
Estimate the remaining
useful life of the major systems, equipment, structure and finishes.
A home inspection gives the
buyer an impartial, physical evaluation of the overall condition of the home and
items that need to be repaired or replaced. The inspection gives a detailed
report on the condition of the structural components, exterior, roofing,
plumbing, electrical, heating, insulation and ventilation, air conditioning and
interiors.
What can home buyers expect from a private
home inspector – besides a bill for around $350 (depending upon
size of property and/or complexity of the inspector's report)?
First of all, we suggest you require proof of membership in the
American Society of Home Inspectors. Home inspection is
presently a comparatively unregulated industry in many states;
ASHI-certified inspectors meet stringent requirements and abide
by a sturdy Code of Ethics.
Next, expect a written report within one or two days following
the inspection.
Possible Repairs
Our experience has taught us that home buyers don't hesitate to
make necessary repairs to the home they're considering – they
just want to know up-front what to expect, and how much money to
plan on spending.
Your private home inspection protects your interests, just as an
appraiser's inspection protects the lender from whom you'll
obtain your mortgage. Your inspection assures you that the house
you're purchasing is what it appears to be. And it alerts you to
the maintenance and repair your new home will need as time goes
on.
Here are some sample costs:
Problems
Examples
Costs
Serious
heating, cooling, roofing, plumbing
$2,000-$5,000
Medium
insulation, paint
$500-$2,000
Minor
electrical outlets, kitchen sink
$100-$500
If no serious problems are found, inspection
can pay off indirectly in maintenance tips and the assurance
that you are making a sound investment. And if the inspection
unearths catastrophic problems that can't be resolved to your
satisfaction, Real Living’s purchase agreement protects your
interests. Ask your Real Living sales associate to explain all
the possibilities.
Click on the house to find out more about
the inspection process and helpful maintenance tips:
