Getting Inspections When you are buying a home, it is vital to get your home inspected. Inspections can uncover flaws in the home or hidden hazards that can cost you thousands of dollars later on, and be a safety hazard for your family. In the beginning of a real estate purchase transaction, you, as the ... [Read More]
Getting Inspections
When you are buying a home, it is vital to get your home inspected. Inspections can uncover flaws in the home or hidden hazards that can cost you thousands of dollars later on, and be a safety hazard for your family.
In the beginning of a real estate purchase transaction, you, as the Buyer, are given a contingency period. This time period is negotiable with the Seller and varies from 7 to 17 days in length. During this time it is your job to inspect the home.
Most home buyers do not have the expertise to see any hidden defects. It is crucial to have a competent licensed professional conduct the various inspections on a home.
Most buyers are smart to get, at least:
a termite inspection to check for termites and water or fungus damage;
and a property inspection to inspect all the major systems of the home such as plumbing, electrical, foundation, chimney, roof.
It is also a good idea to have a roof inspection conducted, and, if the house has a fireplace, get a chimney inspection as well.
There are also inspections available for lead-based paint, mold, foundation, swimming pools and more.
A good realtor will go over these inspections with you and help you understand the purpose of each one.
Inspections are always smart even if the house is new or has been remodeled, and especially if you are buying the house in its existing “as-is” condition.
Inspections will cost you some money up front, but can save you thousands of dollars in future repairs.
And remember; always choose a high quality inspector. Not all inspectors are the same. It is smarter to spend an extra $150 or $200 to have a good thorough inspection. A cheap inspection report can often miss hidden defects that a good inspector will discover.
For more information about buying a home, give us a call at 408 684 4469.
Related articles
Home inspection tips before deciding to buy a house (holidayhometimes.com)
4 Reasons Why You Should Get A Property Inspection Before You List Your Home (blogher.com)
