If you've purchased a home before, you have probably experienced all of the methods of Due Diligence During the Home Buying Process. The loan process; the home search and buying process; the inspection process; and the closing process. Do you ever wonder if you performed enough due diligence?
Due diligence can be different things to different people. Due diligence for the home buying process would definitely include interviewing loan officers first to find one you are comfortable with. You would also have to produce financial documents to qualify for a loan and produce any other document necessary to close the loan.
Due diligence during the home buying process can also mean finding the right realtor with whom you feel comfortable and one who has experience in home buying. That realtor should be courteous, hold your information in confidence, and be your advocate during the purchase process
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Due diligence during the inspection period means locating a competent home inspector, termite inspector, environmental inspector, mold inspector, radon inspector, lead based paint testor and many other things. But there's another type of inspection most home buyers do not include - an energy audit.
An energy audit is not a home inspection. You see, a home inspector is trained to spot defects and health and safety issues as they refer to construction. Your home inspector will view and test different areas inside the home and may peer up into an attic and view visible surfaces to review insulation. But it is not the home inspectors job nor is it included in their manual to review systems as to energy efficiency.
An energy audit is an assessment of the home's current mechanical systems, including ducts, air conditioners, water heater, and windows to name a few of the items tested. This test typically takes about 2 hours and will reveal different aspects of the homes systems as they relate to energy efficiency.
As an EcoBroker, GREEN®, REALTOR®, my standard of practice is to offer these to home buyers during the inspection period. Extra insulation, duct sealing and new equipment may or may not be asked of the seller to repair, depending on the severity of the problem.
This photo is of a listing of mine that just sold in Scottsdale. The home sellers had no idea they were air conditioning their attic until an air conditioning repair man spotted these holes in the ducts that existed due to the removal of a humidifier by the previous owner. The buyers were grateful that this was repaired, even though it was NOT seen by their home inspector.
Peace of mind is priceless when it comes to the home buying process. Wouldn't you want to know what's in the attic? REALTORS® don't show you attics during the home buying process, but a home inspector might show you photos and the energy auditor will show you many photos and explain how your home could be more energy efficient. That Due Diligence During the Home Buying Process will give you more information, allowing you to decide if the home is a good fit for you.
If you're looking for a home in the Phoenix Metro Area, please give me a call. As your advocate you'll get great service and peace of mind!
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