What is a Home Inspection?
Why do I need a Home Inspection?
What does a Home Inspection include?
Do I need to be there during the Inspection?
How long will the Inspection take?
Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?
Why cant I do the Inspection myself?
What if the Inspection uncovers problems?
Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?

What is a Home Inspection? Back to top

A home inspection is a professional, complete visual examination of all the systems and physical structural elements of a home. Our emphasis is on identifying existing or potential problems that would affect a purchaser's buying decision. Please note: A home inspection is not a warranty. Our goal is to find all possible defects within each home, but there is no guarantee that all defects will be found.

Why do I need a Home Inspection? Back to top

A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It only makes sense to find out as much as you can about the house you are interested in before you buy. That way you can avoid costly surprise repairs and problems with your new home. That is why most of today's home buyers decide to have their homes professionally inspected prior to closing (in fact, over 80% of all real estate transactions now involve the use of a professional home inspector).

The reasons for this are many: First, the inspection findings often allow you to renegotiate with the sellers. This means that any needed repairs may be performed by, or paid for by the sellers. Second, you also have the option of cancelling your purchase agreement if you decide that the needed repairs are more than you bargained for. Third, your report will also advise you of what maintenance is required to keep your home in top condition. Lastly, all of your questions will be addressed before you move in. Lets face it, when it comes to buying a new home, the details and questions can be overwhelming. For example: How do you know your prospective home is in good condition? How much longer will the roof last? Is the furnace operating properly?

What does a Home Inspection include?   Back to top

Our standard inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house. This includes the condition of the home's heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, roof, foundation, attic and visible insulation, walls, doors, windows and all visible structure. To see a detailed list of what is and what is not included, CLICK HERE

Do I need to be there during the Inspection?   Back to top

No, you are not required to be there for the inspection. In fact, we discourage you from being there for the entire inspection.  Why?...Because it is easy for the inspector to be distracted when the client is following him the entire time.  That is why we ask our buyers to arrive after the inspection procedures are completed.  This time is referred to as the "walkthrough".  The walkthrough is a valuable learning experience for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection. During the walkthrough, you will hear and see all of the inspection findings.  You can also ask any questions you may have.  The inspector will also explain maintenance tips for specific areas.

While the practice of conducting the walkthrough after the inspection results in more time spent at the property for the inpector, we feel this truly results in a better product for our clients.  That alone is why we do this.

How long will the Inspection take?   Back to top

The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home. For most homes, 2 1/2 hours of inspection procedures, followed by 1 hour of walkthrough with the client is typical.  Larger homes, or homes in poor condition may take longer.

Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?   Back to top

Absolutely. A professional inspection of a new home is important. We can spot potential problems early, while they are still easy to correct.  Believe it or not, homes are not always built correctly.

Why cant I do the Inspection myself?   Back to top

Chances are that even if you are very familiar with home construction, you still don't have the knowledge, training and experience of a professional Home Inspector. We've inspected thousands of homes. It's also important to remember that the inspector remains an impartial third party. If you are involved in buying or selling a house, it's impossible for you to remain completely unemotional about the house, and this may cloud your judgment. The professional inspector will provide an objective outside reporting of the facts.

What if the Inspection uncovers problems?   Back to top

Our report will tell you the condition of the house, including needed repairs and in some cases, the approximate repair expenses. No house is going to be perfect. It is up to you to decide how any problems the inspection uncovers might affect your decision to purchase. If major problems are discovered, you may want to try negotiating with the seller to have them repaired before closing the deal. Or perhaps the seller will lower the price, or offer more favorable contract terms. In the end, the decision rests with you, but knowing about potential problems, before you buy, gives you the power to negotiate and make the best decisions.

Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?   Back to top

No. The code of ethics of The National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI) prohibits its members from doing repair work on properties they inspect. This assures that there will never be any conflict of interest by the inspector. Our purpose is to provide an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home.



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