An examination of the structure and mechanical systems to determine a homes safety; makes the potential homebuyer aware of any repairs that may be needed.
Since many states do not have licensing requirements for home inspectors it is important that you check with your local better business bureau or home builders association before hiring an inspector.
Make sure you are with the home inspector as they do the inspection so they can give you tips on preventive maintenance. They can also help you identify potential future problems with the home.
Home inspections can also be very educational for the first time home buyer. As the inspector is going through the house and checking all the systems they can often provide you with information that is vital for the maintenance and safety of some of the systems. For example, the main shut off for the water supply, the main switch for the electric, where and how to replace heating filters, etc.
If you are a first time home buyer, and you don't know much about houses, ask your home inspector to explain the different systems as they go through the house.
A home inspection is highly recommended. I can not emphasize enough how important a QUALIFIED home inspector is. You want someone who is going to do a thorough job and not cut any corners. This obviously is going to help you by minimizing the unexpected costs of home repair. A qualified home inspector can be referred by your realtor and/or mortgage broker, or one can be located either online or in the phone book.
The home inspector may also suggest having further environmental testing, based on what they think may be a problem with the home or neighborhood. Some of these may include;
Lead testing
Asbestos testing
Water testing
Radon testing
Carbon monoxide testing
Septic inspection
Formaldehyde testing
In cases where the home inspector finds minor problems with a property, the home buyer can often use that information to negotiate for a discount on the price. A home inspection report listing the problems of the property is a great negotiation tool.
How does one get peace of mind when buying a resale home? A home inspection by a qualified inspector plus a Home Warranty policy equals: Peace of Mind for the buyer.
If any defects or faults are found by the inspector the lender will most likely require them to be repaired before they will allow the loan to close on the property.
Remember, no home, even brand new homes, will be completly free of defects. Don't expect your new home to have a perfectly clean inspection report.
