| Buyer Beware! | | | | thorough inspection of the following: |
| You've heard it many times. But I don't want this | | | | - Foundation and Crawl Space |
| term to apply only to your home purchase. I want | | | | - Drainage |
| you to have as much information as possible about | | | | - Roof and Attic |
| the condition of the home BEFORE...not after you | | | | - Plumbing System |
| buy it! Spend a little money now for a good home | | | | - Electrical System |
| inspection...and avoid the possibility of problems after | | | | - Walls, Floors and Doors |
| you move in. | | | | - Kitchen and Appliances |
| The home inspection is strictly for your | | | | Although the inspector will check the appearance and |
| benefit...information to help you make an informed | | | | air temperature of the heating and air conditioning |
| decision. It should not be confused with an appraisal, | | | | system, it's advisable to order a separate inspection |
| which is a determination of value required by your | | | | by a qualified HVAC service contractor. |
| lending institution. | | | | We recommend that you accompany the inspector. |
| Our office offers a free home inspection (as part of | | | | You will be able to ask questions and see any |
| a bundle package) because we believe that we | | | | problem for yourself. |
| haven't done the best job for you without one. It's | | | | Always determine if you would like additional |
| far too important to ignore...or just hope for the best! | | | | inspections such as mold, radon or water quality. A |
| A home inspector once told me to never depend on | | | | pest inspection is required, but is usually the |
| local government codes inspectors to make sure the | | | | responsibility of the seller. Again, in my experience I |
| house is built right. Especially in new construction, | | | | know that most agents and sellers choose the pest |
| many spec home builders will take shortcuts that | | | | inspector that charges the least amount of money. If |
| they know won't be spotted. And never make the | | | | there is any question, especially in an older home...it |
| mistake of thinking that the good 'ole buddy system | | | | would be wise to hire your own pest inspector. |
| isn't alive and well in the construction business! In my | | | | Considerations for Choosing an Inspector |
| own experience, I've seen codes inspectors favoring | | | | - Does he work full time as an inspector? |
| the large production builders as well as the custom | | | | - His education and qualifications? |
| builders. It's to your advantage to make sure about | | | | - Does he carry errors and omissions insurance? |
| your home's construction...by an independent | | | | - Is he willing to provide references? |
| inspector. | | | | - Will he answer all your questions? |
| What to Expect | | | | - Determine exactly what he will or will not inspect. |
| The typical general home inspection should take at | | | | As always, please contact me with any additional |
| least 2-3 hours to complete, and should include a | | | | questions! I'm here to help you! |