You've found the perfect home for your family, and the buyers have accepted your offer. Now it's time to schedule a home inspection performed by a qualified residential inspection services company. By hiring a home inspection expert, you will gain peace of mind knowing that the home you're buying is solidly built and exactly what you want, without any major hidden problems. Here are five tips for getting the most out of your residential home inspection as a buyer.
Choose the Best Inspection Company
Just like choosing the best real estate agent and mortgage broker, it's worthwhile to take your time and choose the best residential inspection company, instead of hiring the cheapest. Your home inspection needs to be handled by a true expert who will take their time, know what to look for, and be able to clearly communicate any potential issues to you both verbally and in the written inspection report.
In addition to getting referrals from your real estate agent and reading customer reviews, you may want to double check that your home inspector is certified by a national organization like the American Society of Home Inspectors.
Plan to Be at the Inspection
While you may not be required to attend the home inspection, it is important that you are there, along with your real estate agent. Reading the written home inspection report may be confusing if you are not present at the inspection to see potential issues in person. Your inspector may also give you their candid impression of the overall quality and structural integrity of the home in a casual, straightforward way that doesn't make it into the inspection report.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Unless you have a construction background, some aspects of the home inspection may be confusing. Instead of pretending to understand what your home inspector is talking about, it's a great idea to ask clarifying questions as needed. You should also bring a notebook or electronic device for taking notes and jotting down things you'd like to investigate further.
Consider Hiring Specialized Inspectors
Your home inspector is most likely more of a generalist than a specialist. They may mention that they see evidence of certain problems, but can't be completely certain. In this situation, it's a really good idea to hire a specialized home inspector to inspect your home for that specific issue.
One common example is if your inspector mentions they see evidence of mold. Mold presents a health problem for your entire family, and if mold is present it should be professionally addressed before you purchase the home, ideally at the expense of the seller.
In addition to a mold inspection, you may want to have a water inspection and test performed, especially if you live in an area known for contaminated water or the property includes a private well. Similarly, you should hire a pest control specialist to inspect the home if there is evidence of termites or other pest activity.
Be Prepared to Negotiate
Following the inspection, sit down with your real estate agent and discuss your options. If there are major issues with the home, you may want to walk away from the deal, or negotiate the cost of repairs as part of your contract. If the home is generally in great shape with a few minor, easy to fix issues, you may opt to buy the home as-is and deal with the minor repairs yourself. Your real estate agent will negotiate your contract on your behalf once you decide on the best course.
By hiring the right residential inspection services company and following these tips, you will rest easy knowing your new home is a sound investment. Learn more by contacting companies like Donofrio & Associates.
Share6 March 2017
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