Inspections before buying a home? - Before buying a home borrowers should have the home inspected for current or potential problems that might occur. These inspections should be done by somene knowledgeable or by a professional. Purchase contracts often have contingencies based on the home passing inspections. So, what type of inspections are common before purchasing a home?It is important to understand that an appraisal inspection is not the same as a home inspection. A home inspection is much more detailed inspection of the homes overall condition.
Don't confuse a home inspection with a home warranty. If a problem is detected in the inspection and you don't make arrangements with the seller before the closing, you will be responsible for making whatever repairs are necessary.
Should I get a pest inspection? - Although a pest inspection is not required except for government loans, it is a good idea to get one for the peace of mind knowing that your new home is not being damaged by termites or other wood destroying insects.
There is nothing worse than moving into a home and finding out your home is infested with bugs, mice, rats or any other unwanted guests. Problems that arise with these unwanted guests are often not apparent on the surface and thus could cost you thousands of dollars down the road.
Do I need a home warranty? - A home warranty protects homeowners against unexpected repairs of major systems and appliances in the home that could be otherwise costly to the homeowner.
Why should I get a home inspection? - A home inspection is not required for a purchase but it is very important to have one done.
A home inspection is not the same as an appraisal. Even though your home will be appraised you should still have a home inspection done. An appraisal is done to estimate the value of the property and to notice more of the obvious features and some of the obvious deficiencies in home. An inspection really gets into the home and provides a thorough inspection of all the details of the home, such as tests and checks the furnace, attics, looks for mold, and checks the home with a "fine tooth comb" to make sure there are no problems structurally or functionally.
Having an inspection performed does not guarantee that your new home will be free from defects, however it may help identify any potential problems. You should view an inspection as extra insurance because you are having a professional look for problems you may not be able to identify yourself. If you are still concerned with possible problems you should look into getting a home warranty which will protect you from any defects with the home.
Having an inspection done will help in preventing any costly repairs needed in the future. There will always be some minor things found ie: leaky faucet, etc. But any major problems you want to find out beforehand.
Looks can be deceiving. You may be dealing with a seller who painted over a water damaged ceiling without repairing a leaky roof or who hung pictures over holes in the walls. Only a thorough inspection by someone who knows buildings well will give you the peace of mind that a home is sound.
