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Home Inspections and Appraisals - They are Not the Same Thing!
Austin TX Homes Buyers need to understand that when they buy a house, a home inspection is not the same as an appraisal. I hear all the time, especially from first time home buyers, "Do I really need to pay for an inspection when the lender is going to send an appraiser?"
YES!!
A home inspection is what tells you what is and isn't working in your potential new home, whereas an appraisal is to determine value.  Completely different things. The inspector turns all the mechanical things on like the AC, Furnace, and Stove. He runs all the water and checks for leaks. If you get one with a pest control license, they even check for termites, previous infestations and current ones.  Yes, if you're obtaining an FHA loan, the appraiser does look at some safety issues like making sure there are no exposed wires and whether the banister on a staircase will hold the minimum 250 pounds. Other than visual safety things, the appraiser is there to measure the home and give an opinion of value.
Home Inspectors in the state of Texas must be licensed and bonded. They all use the same form provided by the state so they ... more

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