Home inspections are significant part of the home-buying process. Buying a home without home inspection is a risk. It is almost like buying a car without even kicking tires. A home inspection by an expert and independent inspectors gives you better insights to make a wiser home buying decision.
Any good real estate agent will recommend you to include home inspection clause in home buying contract.
This clause provides that if significant defects are revealed by a home inspection, you can back out of your purchase offer, free of penalty, within a certain timeframe. A qualified home inspector is capable in identifying any areas in home with health and safety problems and the need for repairs and replacement as well as any conditions that need further specialized attention.
Certified home inspectors conduct a thorough physical inspection of the structural elements such as the roof, foundation, walls, windows, doors, insulation, basement or crawlspace and attic. Professional home inspectors also check the various units like electrical, plumbing and heating and cooling systems. A home inspection typically lasts for two to three hours and the buyer should be present for the inspection to get a first-hand explanation of the inspector’s findings and, if necessary, ask questions.
When you approach home inspectors, you must understand that home inspection is not “pass” or “fail” process for a home. It gives you information about whether you should buy a home or not or negotiate with the seller to either fix (some of) the problems or negotiate the price. Once the inspection is complete, a home inspector prepares a comprehensive report detailing any issues with the home. Hoe inspectors offer vary in capabilities and competitiveness, however it is recommended to hire licensed and certified home inspectors to get quality services.