Role of the Home Inspector
Home Inspections provide a definite value by giving a level of
objectivity in evaluating a home. When a homeowner determines the value
or condition of a home, it is very difficult to separate the emotional
aspects of the home from the objective inventory of features and
condition. It is part of our nature to invoke the emotional value in a
home, which can cause a conflict in the
sale process. A deal for buying a home can fall apart over old appliances
or home improvement work that has sentimental but not intrinsic value.
Home inspectors play the role of objective third party. Typically, home
inspectors evaluate a property five to ten days after negotiation of a
contract is complete in order to secure mortgage approval. This inspection
only checks the condition of the home at the time of inspection and is
no guarantee of condition beyond that point. Home inspectors need no
special equipment beyond flashlight, ladder, simple tools and documentation.
Some special features on a home may not be included in the inspection
such as swimming pools, in-ground sprinklers, gazeboes, etc.
A good inspector will check for radon and other harmful gases. Buyers
can go on the inspection and observe. A good inspector will freely
describe what they are looking
at, how to check for problems and what condition they believe the area
is in. Often they can show you useful things like a shut off for water,
where to light a pilot light on a furnace and other bits of information.
Do not settle for a verbal confirmation of condition on a property - get
a report in writing. Some inspectors will fill out a standard inspection
checklist, but detailed reports are far more helpful. This is not to say
that inspectors will catch every possible problem in a home, but a
thorough inspection will give a much great piece of mind to a purchaser.
A typical inspection will cost about $250 to $350 and take a few hours.
It is recommended that any home, even a new home, be inspected. Often
in a rush to develop a subdivision corners may be cut that can present
problems in the near future. The new home delivered to you may not be as
flawless as the model your tour. Inspection allows buyers and sellers to
resolve problems prior to closing and makes it less likely to the buyer
that some defect has not been disclosed about the property.
Home inspection is largely and unregulated industry so do not neglect
making sure you get a qualified inspector. Home inspectors should not
recommend or bid on repair work, as this is a conflict of interest. When
selecting your inspector, get a few references and do check them. Also
get referrals for an inspector from sources other than a
real estate company (such as your mortgage lender).
Quality Check - Questions to ask when looking for a home inspector.
- How long has the company has been doing inspections?
- Does the company have error and omissions insurance?
- Will the company give a written and signed report?
- Does the company stand behind its report - give a guarantee?
- How many real estate companies does the inspector work with
regularly?
If you live in a state that has no home inspection requirements, it is
still recommended that you have it done. For a seller, a home inspection
as part of pre-listings a home can help sell the home in a more timely
manner. For a buyer, it helps cut down the emotional appeal of a
property and give a more objective and realistic evaluation.
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