There are a lot of things you need to research before you buy a home. Some people think a home inspection is unnecessary and a waste of time and money. This is not always the case. A good home inspector is like a good doctor. A thorough examination can reveal all kinds of important things you did not know about. Here are a few things you ought to know about home inspections:
The buyer is responsible for the inspection
First-time buyers sometimes don’t realize they are responsible for inspections. Home inspections are the responsibility of the buyer since they are the person who is taking the risk of inheriting all of the problems that the house has. This means the buyer has more to lose than the seller who may be trying to unload his problems onto the buyer. The buyer should find a home inspector and get the house inspected before they go to the settlement table.
Home inspections are optional
Some people think home inspections are a requirement, but they are not. If you need your home inspected, you get an inspector and have it done. However, no one can force you in any way to do a home inspection. You as the buyer should decide which inspections should be done
Get a certified home inspector
Most people confuse a contractor and a home inspector. The two are entirely different. The contractor knows how to fix home problems, so people assume they know where the problem is. Home inspectors, on the other hand, are professionally trained in how to identify problems even if they are small enough to be missed by you and other people.
If you want to find a good home inspector, start with your local realtor. Realtors have contacts of quality certified inspectors from past transactions.
You are free to attend inspections
The buyer attending the home inspection is a good idea. You get plenty of time to ask any questions you might have concerning the property. There are home inspectors who advise their clients to attend the inspection. They may even give advice on how to maintain the house after the purchase.
Repairs after the inspection are negotiable
If considerable damages are found during an inspection, there are three ways in which this can go. The seller can do the repairs before the settlement; the seller can opt to credit you the money for the repairs during the sale of the house or the repairs can become the buyer’s responsibility.
You can walk away after the inspection
If you get an inspection report that features severe damages or something catastrophic, you can walk away from the deal. If you had made an initial deposit, you may be able to get your money back depending on how long you take to make up your mind and the arrangement you have with the seller. Your realtor can let you know what your options and risks are before you make an offer on the house.
