Homebuyers: Don’t Skip The Home Inspection

A home inspection is beneficial for both buyers and sellers. However, this article will focus on the basic benefits to you as a homebuyer.

Although home inspections come at an additional cost, a thorough review of your prospective home could end up saving you money – or, at the very least, you’ll have the peace of mind that you are getting what you paid for.

Remember, there are other ways to save money with your home purchase, and it begins with getting matched with the right home loan.

Contact us today for personalized home loan services and read on to see all the ways a home inspection will benefit you.

**Home inspections can sometimes be a requirement depending on the location and loan. Contact us for more details. 

Inspecting Your Home Inside and Out 

Typically, you would request a home inspection after your initial offer, though the seller can order one any time before that. One of the main reasons that you’ll want to have a home inspector is to take advantage of their expertise.

Even if you’re an experienced homeowner or are knowledgeable in construction, a home inspector has a broad understanding of the home structure, mechanics, and landscaping.

While every home and inspection requirements differ, a home inspection will typically include a review of:

•          The foundation, basement, crawl spaces
•          The roof, attic, visible insulation
•          Mechanical systems (plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, etc.)
•          Interior (walls, windows, doorway, etc.)
•          Exterior (walkways, driveways, curbs, garage, etc.)

After the review, the inspector will offer recommendations for repair or replacement. You can use this information to negotiate a new offer with the seller, negotiate repairs to be completed by the seller, or, at the very least, know what repairs will need to be done in the future.

Note that inspections done by municipal inspectors for new constructions are to ensure that minimum building standards are met and may not be as thorough as described above. In this case, consider an additional inspection of the home.

Ask Questions

If possible, join the inspectors while they review the home. During this time, you’ll be able to ask questions, clear up misunderstandings, and gain valuable information about your prospective future home.

Paying for the Inspection

There are fees associated with getting a home inspection. Factors that affect the cost of the inspection include the size of the home, whether the home is complete or under construction, as well as what the inspector charges for their services.

The person responsible for paying for the inspection also varies depending on who requested the inspection, if it is a requirement of the state or the loan, as well as other factors.

The cost is typically paid upfront; however, this is not always the case. Contact us for more information. 

Licensing and Certification

Licensing requirements vary from state to state, and in some cases, inspectors need only to be certified by a professional association.

Whether you use a licensed, certified, or a recommended home inspector, understanding the process of inspection and knowing the condition of the home empowers you as a buyer.

Getting a Home Inspection

Want even more negotiating leverage? Pre-qualify for a home loan today! Contact us today to get started.