In the picture above is the inn located in Rodanthe NC named Serendipity, which a lot of people will remember from the movie, Nights in Rodanthe. The word serendipity originated from the Persian fairy tale of "The Three Princes of Serendip" heroes who were always making discoveries, by accidents. Unless you are like the heroes in this fairy tale, then you want to have a home inspection done before you purchase your next home! You need to know exactly what you’re buying. The purpose of a home inspection is to look for material defects of a property: things that are unsafe, not working, or that create a hazard.
Before you hire a home inspector, ask candidates a few questions to make sure you hire a trustworthy inspector.
1. What does your inspection cover? Not all inspections are the same. Ask for copies of previous home inspection, so you can see exactly what they will check inside the [city] home. If you are concerned about something specific, like a leaky faucet in the bathroom, mention that to the inspector so they can check it out.
2. Are you licensed or certified? If you live in a state that licenses home inspectors, ask to see their license. At the very least, choose a home inspector who belongs to American Society of Home Inspectors. This shows a level of professionalism and education that you can trust.
3. What kind of report will you give me? You should expect a written report detailing what the inspector found. Most inspectors will give you a typed report within a week of the inspection. Make sure the inspector will be available to explain anything on the report that doesn’t make sense to you.
4. Will I be able to attend the inspection? If the inspector refuses to let you be present during the home inspection, find someone else. This is your chance to know exactly what you are buying and what potential repairs you or the seller will have to make.
To help avoid post-move-in surprises, buyers also might consider bringing in additional inspectors to evaluate the home (i.e., HVAC technician, Septic System inspection – often needed in the OBX, Roofing inspection, and etc.). As your OBX real estate agent, I will guide you through the home buying process and help you find the RIGHT inspectors.
The home inspection report will tell you many items or things you may need to have a heads up on or items you may need to deal with in the future. To me, I use it as a guide. It allows me to decide if I want to deal with certain things or not. You can ask the seller to fix things, but remember the seller can say, "YES," "NO," or not respond at all. Please remember existing homes will have bumps and bruises!
So, please don't wait to accidently find existing flaws with you new home, after closing! Get you home inspection completed during your due diligence.
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