Home Inspections Help You Avoid Unpleasant Surprises

  • Suppose you bought a house and later discovered, to your dismay, that the stucco exterior concealed a nasty case of dry rot or mold. The best way to avoid unpleasant surprises like these is to arrange for a home inspection before you buy.
  • A good home inspection is an objective, top-to-bottom examination of a home and everything that comes with it, including other structures on the property. 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 and basement.
  • Getting a professional inspection is crucial 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 hazardous repair work, such as a past owner's failed attempt to install lights and an outlet in a linen closet.

Getting an Inspector

  • I can recommend several experienced home inspectors for you to choose from. You can also find one through word-of-mouth referrals, or look in the Yellow Pages or online under "Building Inspection" or "Home Inspection."
  • Home inspections cost about a few hundred dollars, depending on the size of the house and other stuctures you want included. You may find the cost of inspection high, but it is money well spent. Think of it as an investment in your investment – your future home.

An Inspection Will Educate You about Your House

  • Education is another good reason for getting an inspection. Most buyers 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.
  • If you would like 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 Timing and Results

Home buyers usually arrange for an inspection after signing a purchase agreement with the seller. The inspection will take place during the predetermined window of time specified in your purchase agreement so that results may be available with adequate time for you to review them and resolve any issues with the sellers. The home inspector will review his or her 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. If major problems are found, you can back out of the deal. If costly repairs are warranted, the seller may be willing to adjust the home's price or the contract's terms. But when only minor repairs are needed, the buyer and seller can usually work out an agreement that won't affect the sale price.