lundi 11 novembre 2013

Home Inspections Matter

By Morgana Gunt


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. You want to make sure you get a good one when you need a home inspection.

A home inspection evaluates the current condition of a house through a professional and objective evaluation. Typically done as part of the home buying process, home inspections are most often performed at the buyer's request. Sometimes it is required by the buyer's bank to protect it from risky investments, and can protect the buyer from unseen issues too. If there are any problems discovered, a seller may be asked to either renegotiate the sale price, or take care of the repairs and remedy the problem.

Problems with a house may be addressed prior to putting it on the market, when the service is requested by a home seller.

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 shingle condition, flashings, gutters and downspouts, should all be inspected, not to mention the readily accessible, viewable, general structure of the roof.

Defects in siding, flashings, brick, or other wall coverings should be viewed on the exterior of the home; examine if the doors and windows fit; steps and porches should be looked at for the general condition (ie. rot), their railings too; 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; signs of water penetration.

A minor part of the overall cost of a real estate transaction, a professional quality home inspection is well worth what it costs, considering its value adds reliability and certainty. The cost of not knowing can be considerable - you just never know.

A home inspector looks at many things. The inspection report will identify problems with the home. It will describe the findings in clear and easy to understand language, often accompanied by photographs. 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 is usually in a range between $250-$500, and varies according to the size and the age of the house. Some inspectors offer special deals at a lower cost but it is important for the prospective client to determine if the special deal follows all industry accepted standards.

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. Deal breakers might arise. Having the inspector's evaluation can help you get the very best deal if you do decide to buy the house.




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