Professional home inspections are designed to let you know of any minor or major issues in a home before you buy it. This allows you to go into a purchase with more of a grasp as to the value of the home you’re buying, any potential issues that could arise down the line, or to allow you to go back to the seller with requests for repairs or with additional bargaining power on your side to lower the price of the property.
Overall, home inspections serve to bring you a professional eye and opinion regarding issues or the condition of a home you intend to buy, and will let you go into your purchase with an informed decision and accurate idea of what you might be in for regarding repairs and maintenance in the future.
Home inspectors help future homeowners identify potential issues with the homes they’re interested in, and will give a heads up on any current or future maintenance the home might need. When buying a home, having a home inspector survey and take a trained eye on the property can make all the difference between buying a home that’s in good condition, and one that can be a gold mine of potential problems and headaches.
It might seem like a hassle to have an inspector come check the place out before you buy, but their informed opinion can end up saving you thousands of dollars in unforeseen repairs or in buying a home in poor shape.
If you’re looking into home inspections and are wondering what to expect from them, or are wondering what a home inspection is in the first place, we’ve got everything you need to know about home inspections to set you up for success.
What is a Home Inspection?
As we briefly mentioned before, home inspections are a visual review of a home’s physical external, and internal structure, the function of its mechanical systems and appliances, plus any plumbing, electrical, and other systems that might contribute to the day-to-day function of the home.
Home inspectors look at everything – from your roof, ceilings, walls, windows, floors, doors, all appliances, siding, or the material used on the outside of your home, to the heating and air conditioning and everything in between. Many will even survey the attic and basement, or even walk around the backyard to detect any potential water flow issues or potential damage to the home.
Home inspectors seek to inform and alert you of any potential or current issues with the home, especially ones that will cost you a lot of money upfront, or small issues that could become larger over time. However, home inspectors won’t give you their opinion regarding the price of the home, how much it’s worth, or whether or not you’re getting a good deal when taking into account the shape of the property.
What Goes Into a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is standard procedure for the buyer of a home to have done once the seller has accepted their offer on a home. This occurs before the house is bought, or before any paper is finalized. Once you’re under contract or in the process of buying the home, you’ll want to set up a home inspection as soon as possible. This will give you time to schedule additional inspections if needed and will give you time to go back to negotiations if needed. Ideally, leave around 7-10 days amidst the home buying process for the inspection to be carried out.
What to Look for in a Home Inspector
It’s the buyer’s responsibility to hire a home inspector. Many sellers will offer to show you the records of their home inspection or will describe the home as ‘pre-inspected’, but you should always book and use your home inspector during the process so you can choose the one you trust to be honest with you regarding the state of your home.
When looking for a home inspector, ask around to friends, family, or colleagues to find one with a good reputation. You can also look through databases of professional home inspector associations, like the American Society of Home Inspectors or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Using home inspectors from these associations will give you confidence in your inspection in knowing that your inspectors have had to pass an exam, gain additional education and uphold a code of ethics to be a part of each association.
Look for and talk to home inspectors with lots of training, expertise, and experience. Ideally, you’ll also want to look for one with experience inspecting the type of home you’re looking at. Ask for references from past clients who will vouch for your potential inspector’s expertise and integrity in their inspection reports.
Home inspection costs can range from $300-$500, which are usually paid out at the time of the service. This walk-through will last multiple hours and will entail your inspector doing a thorough check of your home, including taking photos, and videos, and making notes throughout the process. Their objective opinion can make a huge difference in whether you go through with the home you’ve made your offer on, or whether you’ve had rose-colored glasses on for the home that will be forced to come off.
What Will Be in a Home Inspection Report?
Once your inspection has been carried out, you’ll be given an extensive report of the findings your inspector has uncovered. This will also contain notes, photos, checklists, and more, as well as recommendations for repairs or replacements of certain items.
Once your home inspection is done and your home is (hopefully) cleared, it’s time to finalize your purchase and begin the packing and moving process. This is an exciting time, so make sure to give yourself enough time to have the proper planning and preparation done ahead of time instead of rushing into anything. Looking for the best moving company for your move? Reebie Storage & Moving Co. will provide you with the best moving services in Chicago and will give you unparalleled service and efficiency throughout your entire relocation. Contact us today to learn more about our services.