When planning to buy a home, you understand that a home inspection will happen. As a buyer, you should ask yourself: What does this mean for me? What's covered under the inspection? If a problem is discovered immediately, how is that addressed? If later, who is responsible?
Let's review some general guidelines on home inspections.
Any residential property you are buying, whether new construction or pre-built, requires an inspection. Inspection is a house health check. Most every house will have some repairs necessary in order to get it in apple-pie shape.
Realtytimes.com says that inspections typically address repairs that are needed immediately and repairs that might be required down the road. Should you have an inspection done before signing a contract? Absolutely! It can help you settle the issues in a purchase deal. For example, if the carpet throughout the house needs to be replaced, you might ask for a stipend to pay for it. Or the purchase price might be reduced. Ask - the seller is not a mind reader. The worst that happens is the seller says no.
Should you buy a house that needs considerable fixing up? First, have the inspection to determine any hidden damage and extra costs, making sure that you have the financial resource and willpower to move forward with repairs. However, this type of house doesn't mean that you shouldn't buy it. It's always your choice. Just be sure that you've investigated what the rehab will cost and that you can do it, either yourself or by hiring a reliable contractor.
The type of property usually determines the home inspection.
According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), "the standard home inspector's report covers the condition for the home: heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components."
Home inspections are limited. No inspection is obliged to spot hidden conditions or items that might be latent defects. This means if the property is covered by plants, snow or rubbish and there is an issue, the inspector does not have to move those items to inspect. The inspector also has no liability if it's missed. If systems are not easy to get to, an inspector is not required to make an inspection.
In addition, an inspector will not communicate if there are possible hazardous plants and animals on the property - including organisms that destroy wood or molds.
So what does this mean to you? Find a trustworthy home inspector! Check the list of licensed professionals at the ASHI. Its members understand the inspection process and they know houses. They are trained to be objective and correspond appropriately to the buyer just what the house needs or potential problems. The ASHI professional members must commit to continuing education to keep member status. You know you are getting the best.
If you hire a professional inspector, you'll have most all of the issues identified. A good inspection can help you relax in buying your house.
If I can help you with buying your home and finding a house inspector in Blanchard, Edmond, Shawnee, or Oklahoma City, please contact me online, give me a call at 405-366-1111 or check out my website.
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