Mistakes to Avoid When Getting a Home Inspection
Forbes and other property authorities recommend potential buyers get a home inspection before closing on a house. These checks give buyers peace of mind and provide an idea of any upcoming repairs or needs before moving into the home. It is important to hire someone with the right licensing and certifications to ensure a thorough investigation and detailed findings. We talk about six ways new homeowners can put themselves at a disadvantage below.
Not Getting the House Inspected
When buyers skip the home inspection, there is no way to determine what is in good condition and what systems need maintenance soon. Improper repairs and undetected problems can devolve from small issues to massive emergencies costing buyers hundreds if not thousands of dollars in repair costs. One way to make sure this checkup happens is to ask for the seller to include a due diligence clause in the contract. This statement gives the buyer up to two weeks, in most cases, to get the inspection after signing the paperwork.
Selecting the Cheapest Inspection Firm
Since the inspection cost is something the buyer has to fork over, many people skip it or choose a firm with the most affordable rate. There are three primary reasons why home inspectors offer cut-rate prices. Inexperience and firms new to the area are two reasons an inspection team might beat the rest of the competition. Trouble filling inspection slots is another reason a firm might discount inspection fees. Not every low-cost option is a bad idea, but checking out the business or choosing someone else if the price is extremely low might be the best option for new buyers.
Not Researching the Investigator
If this is the first home inspection, then buyers will want to do a lot of research on local investigative teams. One way to check up on these firms is to see if they are affiliated with the American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors. You can look at the company rating on the Better Business Bureau website. You can also check out reviews and testimonials on the client site and online directories.
Leaving the House During the Inspection
Many buyers set up the appointment for the inspection and let the agent inside without following him or her around the house. While it is not a good idea to breathe down the person’s neck, it is important to see they are doing a proper inspection. Some things on a NACHI report include roof eaves, driveways, crawlspaces, and structural beams. You can download a checklist from the agency website to see everything the property authority recommends inspectors check when probing a house.
Skimming the Inspection Report
Just scanning the investigation report means homebuyers can miss important information. Not every item on the list carries the same weight. For example, a leaky air conditioner might not be as bad as a crack in a structural part of the house. Inspectors classify problems as one of four defect types in the home inspection report.
Material Defects
These problems affect the main home systems. They often cause the value of the house to drop. Occupants can be in danger without repairs to these components.
Cosmetic Defect
These damages are slight and easy to fix. They may detract from the look of the property, but not necessarily the value. They are not safety hazards. Cosmetic defects do not interfere with the way the house works.
Minor Defect
These problems are fixable. A minor issue is something a repair specialist or the property owner can reverse. These issues are not pressing giving the new buyer time to come up with funds or a time slot to fix the problem.
Major Defect
These damages are fatal to a part of the house or a system like a furnace. When replacement is the only option, then the home inspector classifies the item as a major defect. Replacing the system is the only way to get the house to pass a home inspection.
Get a Second Inspection After Repairs
After fixing major or material defects, it is crucial to have another inspection. Yes, this may cost extra, but the fee is often a portion of the original inspection price. The peace of mind knowing the home conforms to local building codes is worth every penny.
New buyers may also want to opt for additional checkups for radon, sewer clogs, termites, and mold. Keeping the family safe means hiring the right professional to investigate a property you want to buy. A home inspection can also give you the leverage to get a lower home price or to ask the sellers to cover the repair costs.
Contact 1% Lists with any questions about the best way to get your home on the market and sold!