I like to think of a home inspection as a doctor’s check up. Even if you’re feeling great, it’s not a bad idea to see your local physician every once in a while to make sure everything is in working order.
When buying a home, you’re making a huge commitment. It is important to know if there are any issues and to give yourself the opportunity to research what it’s going to cost to repair any said issues. Not only will an inspection tell you which items need your immediate attention for repair, it also can itemize potential future problems.
What does a home inspector do?
A certified home inspector inspects the structure, exterior, roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, interior, insulation and ventilation of a property. Once done, the inspector usually leaves you with a status report covering each of those areas.
How does a home inspection help you as a buyer?
If unexpected issues are found, it gives a buyer more power to negotiate the price of the home. A seller can also issue a credit to a buyer to take care of repairs or pay for the repairs before close. A buyer can also choose to walk away from the transaction or buy as-is. A home inspection empowers you to make any of these decisions.
How does a home inspection help you as a seller?
As a seller, it is a great idea to schedule a home inspection before putting your home on the market. First, it will allow you to price your home more accurately. It will also help eliminate future headaches by being completely transparent so you do not get to far through the selling process only to have to start again with a new buyer.
What is the cost?
A home inspection usually ranges from $200-$500 and takes approximately 2-5 hours depending on the size of the property. When thousands of dollars worth of repairs can be a reality, I can not impress the importance of a home inspection enough.
In need of a home inspector recommendation? Please feel free to reach out if you’d like a current list of Keller Williams approved vendors.
