Walter Whitehurst
Buying Your First Home? Here’s Why You’ll Need to Ensure You Have a Proper Home Inspection
There’s a whole lot to learn when buying one’s first home, an investment that can bring joy, but sometimes, grief. A competent real estate agent can assist in locating those homes that meet the home buyer’s needs and can advise on factors such as market value of the home and neighborhood services. The agent will help the buyer through the negotiation and purchase process. But the buyer should take responsibility to make sure that the steps below are taken.
Home Inspection Contingency Included in Purchase Offer
Reputable and successful home inspectors may be recommended by the real estate agent or friends. The buyer should talk with prospective inspectors and ask for references. Another indication of competency is an affiliation with professional groups, ensuring that the inspector is well-versed in industry standards. This could include memberships with recognized organizations like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI), which often signifies a commitment to maintaining high-quality standards. Some inspectors even offer specialized services, such as Certified Snagging services, further enhancing their expertise in identifying and addressing potential issues in a new home.
Selecting the Home Inspector
Reputable and successful home inspectors may be recommended by the real estate agent or friends. The buyer should talk with prospective inspectors and ask for references. Another indication of competency is an affiliation with professional groups such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI).
Inspecting the Home
When purchasing a new home, it’s crucial to be aware of potential issues that might not be immediately visible. Engaging a professional home inspector, especially in areas prone to extreme weather conditions like roofing Sandy, can provide peace of mind. By actively participating in the inspection process, asking questions, and gaining insights into proper maintenance, first-time buyers can learn about both visible concerns and hidden ones, ensuring they make an informed decision about their investment.
What Will the Home Inspector Do?
The home inspector examines the entire home, both outside and inside, and checks for safety, defects, replacement or repair needs, and potential problems that should be monitored closely. The inspector will then produce a report covering the findings. The inspection generally takes two to three hours and costs between $200 and $500.
What Will Be Inspected?
External inspections will cover the residential or commercial roof, exterior walls, foundation, grading, garage, and may include sprinklers, lawn, porch lights, walkways and driveways as well. Interior inspections will examine the plumbing and electrical systems, your heating and air conditioning installation that might need air conditioning repair and maintenance, the water heater, kitchen appliances, laundry room, fire safety and bathrooms. If there are issues with the water heater, then you may consider hiring a plumber that specializes in water heater repair in Starke, FL.
Taking this optional step of completing a home inspection, even with a new home, will be well worth the time and additional cost. It will provide a basis on which to make a more realistic offer and give the buyer the peace of mind of having in-depth knowledge about the house being purchased.
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