Buying a home for the first time or the 10th time has one common factor: It may be one of the most important transactions that you make in your lifetime. So what is a home inspection? It is a thorough evaluation of the home by a certified home inspector. This encompasses a non-invasive evaluation of the many component of the home such as the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical, appliances, heating and air conditioning systems, the exterior, and the basement. It may also include out buildings, the garage, and inspections for termite/wood destroying insects and radon.

A certified home inspector should be hired to inspect the home and components to find if there are any material defects, items that need repair, services needed (heater evaluation, chimney inspection, etc.), and an evaluation of many of the components of the home and their life expectancy. The safety aspect of the components is also evaluated and recommendations are made by the home inspector. The home inspector visually inspects the home, writes a report and a defect summary accompanied by pictures of the defect.

The buyer’s agent will review the inspector’s report(s) with the buyers and a request to repair items that are deemed defective are then negotiated within specified timeframes determined by the sales contract. The buyer may accept the property as is, request repairs, or in some cases, ask for a credit. The buyer may also elect to terminate the agreement based on the report.

Every buyer should have inspections on the property that they are purchasing, even if it is new construction. New homes should be inspected just prior to drywall installation to evaluate the structure, electrical, plumbing, and ventilation prior to drywall. The objective here would be to determine if defects are present or perhaps installation of such items were improperly installed. A final inspection of a new home prior to closing is also recommended to ensure the home has been completed in a satisfactory manner.

If you have questions about buying or selling a home contact Lisa G 704-264-4941 or Liz B 704-607-9918