Let me tell you why buyers, sellers, and Realtors in St. John's Newfoundland love home inspections.  

Why wouldn't they? Home inspectors provide a very valuable service.  Home inspections identify the deficiencies of a home and make sure all parties to the transaction are fully informed about the condition of the home.  In doing so, they help to keep both the buyers and sellers out of court and that always make the Realtor happy.  Here are seven advantages of having a home inspection done before a deal is closed.

1.  All home buyers have a right to know the home condition before they make a final buying decision.  If a vendor neglects to disclose or is simply unaware of a deficiency, the home inspector can help to discover it.

2.  Home inspections provide an objective opinion about the structure and systems of the home.  Unless there are major structural problems, this will add strength and reinforcement to the intent of the purchase and sale agreement.

3.  Home inspections give the buyer an opportunity to prepare for home ownership.  The maintenance responsibilities that accompany home ownership are many.  Drawing them to the buyer's attention will help them prepare for home ownership.  Early detection can prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones later.

4.  Home inspectors share liability for errors and omissions.  In the event of a law suit due to a latent deficiency, a Realtor does not bear the responsibility alone.  As Realtors may not have the expertise to perform home inspections, using the services of a professional inspector with liability insurance will help share the liability risk.

5.  Sellers too receive a measure of protection from liability due to latent defects in the home.  When they agree to a home inspection, they demonstrate a transparency to the buyer in their search for deficiencies.  Proof that the vendor concealed a problem will be more difficult to establish.

6.  Home inspections become a historic record of the property.  Each one can build upon the other and can assist in the marketing of a home in future.  When they are kept on file, future buyers can see the history of care that has been taken with the home.

7.  Accurate information is always the professional Realtor's best friend.  The agent "duty of care" is a serious one so Realtors appreciate it when buyers are fully informed before the transaction closes.  Unknown problems with the home's structure or systems will often present challenges to all parties if they are discovered after the sale.

Home buyers should ensure they inform their Realtor to add a home inspection clause to the deal before it is made.  The price of a home inspection is usually between $400 and $600.  That very small investment can save the buyer thousands later. 

Often deficiencies will be repaired before the transaction closes as sellers will either take care of them or adjust the price to the buyers so they can take care of them.  And of course, if the deficiencies are just too complex, the buyer may decide to walk away and purchase another home.

For more help with buying and selling a home, check out this information on how to manage the pressure of a real estate transaction.

If you have any questions about home inspections, feel free to post them here or send me an email at rgosmond1@gmail.com.

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About the Author: R. Greg Osmond is a Platinum Award winning Realtor dedicated to serving the people of St. John's, Mount Pearl, Paradise, Kilbride, Goulds, Conception Bay South (CBS), Portugal Cove-St. Philips, Torbay – Flatrock – Pouch Cove, and Logy Bay - Middle Cove - Outer Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador.  For over 21 years Greg has been practicing in Real Estate.  He can be reached at 709-895-2500.

Want to get in touch? Email rgosmond1@gmail.com.  For more information, please visit http://www.rgregosmond.com.  Thinking of selling your home?  I have a passion for helping my clients with buying and selling real estate!  If there is any way I can be of service to you today, please feel free to contact me!