The following was a question and answer interview from last week with a publisher about home inspections:
Please tell us about yourself and your company here:
I have lived in Greeley, Colorado for over 30 years and have graduated Aims Community college and attended UNC and served in the United States Air Force. I have experience in construction, property management, retail business, Insurance inspections for insurance underwriters and investment properties. I am a long time Greeley resident that has been performing residential and commercial inspections in the area for over 9 years professionally as a certified professional inspector. I received the Board Certified Master inspector designation last year, which is the highest designation in the profession.
If you are moving to the area or buying/selling property in Northern Colorado, give me a call and I would be happy to help you out with my low fee's, professional unbiased and detailed reports, knowledge of the area and timely service.
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Please answer each interview question directly below each question:
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from roof to foundation. A home inspection report or home inspection service is the equivalent of a physical examination from your doctor. When problems or symptoms of problems are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation or remedies, providing you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
What can a homeowner do to improve their home, to help it receive a favorable home inspection?
The homeowner may want to go over the home and take care of any deferred maintenance on the home such as painting, leak stains from prior repairs, dripping faucet ect..
Another option would be to do a sellers inspection. “Seller inspections (sometimes referred to as pre-listing inspections) are becoming more popular because they virtually eliminate all the pitfalls and hassles associated with waiting to do the home inspection until a buyer is found. In many ways, waiting to schedule the inspection until after a home goes under agreement is too late. Seller inspections are arranged and paid for by the seller, usually just before the home goes on the market. The seller is the inspector's client. The inspector works for the seller and generates a report for the seller. The seller then typically makes multiple copies of the report and shares them with potential buyers who tour the home for sale. Seller inspections are a benefit to all parties in a real estate transaction. They are a win-win-win-win situation.”
From Seller Inspections: Streamlining Real Estate Transactions - InterNACHI http://www.nachi.org/sellerinspections.htm#ixzz1no0gGXyk
When a homeowner is selling their home, who typically pays for the home inspection?
The buyer usually pays for the home inspection at the time of inspection. Rarely, does it get added to the closing costs.
Is there any reason to get a home inspection if a homeowner is not selling their home?
Yes, the information I provide is helpful in understanding the condition of the property and what measures should be taken to keep it maintained and run efficiently.
What are some of the common misunderstandings that people have about home inspections?
Realtors fear that the deal will be killed. Sellers think the inspector is there to pick things apart and make them lower the selling price. Buyers think inspectors are not needed and charge too much.
In a nutshell, A general home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of a residential property, performed for a fee, and the inspector acts as a nonbiased 3rd party. The fee is much less than hiring a plumber, electrician, general contractor and a plumber to do the inspections of the various systems. Anything found during the inspection is beneficial to all parties involved so that everyone knows the condition of the property and can plan on how they will be taken care of and avoid suprises.
How does a home inspection differ from a home appraisal?
The appraiser, appraises the value of the property for mortgage purposes.
The inspector inspects the condition of the home and its systems, and in some cases will be hired by a mortgage company to do compliance inspections.
What should a homeowner do if they believe that there are errors in a home inspection report?
If there are errors in the report, alert the inspector right away so that changes can be made if necessary.
Most inspectors will be happy to go over any questions or concerns you may have and explain in more detail their observations. Sometimes there are other factors that were unknown at the time of inspection that can be cleared up with a simple phone call.
How much does a home inspection typically cost?
I generally charge $250 for an average home inspection, but they will generally vary from $200-$400.
Other factors may affect the price such as septic system testing, Radon testing, mold testing, distance, square footage or other services.
Do home inspectors typically provide references upon request?
Yes, and most have usually been referred by a realtor. The ones that matter are from past clients.
Is it possible for a house to "fail" a home inspection?
Again the inspection is just and observation of the property condition and there is no pass or fail, however, if a property is in poor condition one would have to take it into consideration.
How can a homeowner find a reputable home inspector?
There are many certification entities and a reputable inspector should be certified and in good standing with one or more of these. Most will have continuing education requirements. Keep in mind there is no substitution for experience also. The U.S. dept of housing has a 10 question list that can be found at this link. http://frhi.web.officelive.com/10importantquestionstoaskyourHomeinspector
Do home inspectors need to be licensed? If so, how are they licensed and how can their credentials be verified?
In Colorado there is no license requirement. But each state is different.
Does a homeowner have to be home when their home is being inspected?
No, and they generally are not . Realtors like this so there is less chance that there will be verbal agreements between the buyer and seller, that could jeopardize the deal.
What should a homeowner do if their home inspection report reveals problems?
Fix the problem if possible or make arrangements with the buyer on what will be acceptable.
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Please tell us how readers can get in contact with you here:
Brian Persons CMI
Owner/Front Range Home Inspections
970-405-4277
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