Hi Anthony,

Thanks, You too!

Hi Bill,

Home inspectors cannot see what is behind walls but can give buyers insight into situations that they might not be able to notice themselves.

Hi Carol,

I am not certain that the current owners had a home inspection, the inspector was intereviewed for the article and mentioned the home before they took ownership. They discovered the article in a file at city hall when they tried to split their lot over a decade later. Had their been a home inspection, the might not be in the same situation. I also am guessing they purchased direct from the bank without representation. Both of these are just guesses from reading the article though. As agents we really do want to help our clients avoid these situtations...getting a home inspection is always a good investment.

Hi Debb & Bernie, This was a foreclosed home and nearly abandoned. The city knew about the potential hazard but issued building permits for finishing the basement without disclosing it to the homeowner. He might have still been out money but wouldn't have spend those many years in the basement if he understood the danger.

Hi Elizabeth,  I don't think anyone realized someone would do this. It is highly unusual and no one seems to know what to do about it.  But it is why all building permits are so important today. People thought upcycling anything was okay pre-1960. Inspections are critical when buying an older home anywhere.

So true Matthew.

Matthew...This poor man really shows why the inspection is essential. Thanks for your comments

Sybil...Thanks for your comments and yes this is such a sad situation.

Paul...I have had buyers with limited funds bring in knowledgeable friends/family members and sometimes they are more thorough than an inspector. But rarely do buyers waive the inspection...new construction is different but sometimes an inspection is a good idea then too.

Evelina...You are so right. It is so very important to know about what you are buying.

Hi Ricardo...yes very sad for the family.

Hi Lanre,  Long time no chat! Nice to see you! Thanks for your comments.

Hi Jeff,  Dellwood is a beautiful area. And yes, this particular situation is highly unusual. Buying a boarded up place site unseen is just not a good idea. In this case very costly too.

Thanks Hannah!

Hi Eric, Yes just because the market is hot, doesn't mean you should forgo an inspection.

Hi Jim,

Yes it is a good idea to offer a few inspection options and let the inspector do his/her job.