Attention Pasadena CA Sellers/Buyers -- The Housing Inspection Report

Lenn -- the responsibility will vary depending on the location of the property.  You are right that many will think that the city or county is responsible for the care and maintenance of sidewalks.  Our state is suffering from major financial concerns so many of the services that the state, counties and cities took care of have been cut or eliminated.  In my opinion, they look to the private sector to take the financial responsibility for such services.   

Roger -- very true.

John -- very valid point.  With a homeowner association in place, there can be other duties(financial and otherwise) a homeowner may be responsible.

Roy -- that's the spirit of the ordinance, I believe.   Thanks for the photo to brighten the day.   Have a great week.

Morgan - the city process can see intimidating to some but it's fairly straightforward.

Jeffrey - point one -- thanks very much.  Regarding point two:  you bring forth a valid point of view and as know if there is an issue where an accident occurs, it's likely that people will follow the money. 

Belinda - Wild West, huh?  

Joy - in our area the cities of Los Angeles, San Marino, Azusa and Monterey Park have some type of city inspection as well.  So far only Pasadena has a city ordinance for sidewalks -- so far....

Mark - especially dangerous when you consider the number of runners/walkers on the streets as well as those distracted by texting.

Will - thanks for stopping by -- hope you are having a great Colorado day.

Endre - when I have a Pasadena listing I recommend that the city inspection be conducted prior to the home going on the market.  This is beneficial for the seller for at least two reasons.  If the seller is going to complete the repairs they know in advance what is required.   If the seller prefers not to complete the repairs and wants the buyer to sign a waiver, a potential buyer can make offers accordingly.   By completing the inspection upfront, a seller can avoid any time delays and it is entirely possible to close in less than 14 days.  Preparation and upfront planning, as always, is important.  Thanks for the question.   

Hi Ron -- in real estate everthing is negotiable so to answer your question - it depends.   The buyer and seller can sign a waiver for the buyer to take responsibility for any repairs after the close of escrow or perhaps(not likely) the lender can pay for it.   I represented a buyer in a non-owner occupied short sale and the seller paid for the city compliance report and completion.   I hope that answers your question.  

Hi Dick -- I understand.  There are some who feel the city inspection(insert-city-of-choice) is really just another revenue source but when handled properly can benefit everyone.   Are there shortfalls/mistakes -- yes but the process is always improving in my opinion in the communities I serve.

Patricia -- staying up-to-date with city, county or state laws can be difficult for a property owner as the rules can change often.  Many believe that the city/county is responsible for that area between the sidewalk and the curb -- it is beneficial to check with the individual city and find it in writing.

Don -- if a city has a required inspection, it is different than the professional inspector a buyer will utilize.  Typically, in a city inspection -- there is no choice by the buyer/homeowner who will conduct the inspection.

Hi Paul -- thank you for stopping by and commenting.  Have a great weekend in San Diego.