When buying a car, you just feel better when the AA does a pre-inspection of the car to make sure all is in order.

Compared to a car a house is a much bigger capital layout.  Why will you not let a professional inspect a home before you buy it?  Daily there are victims who bought a property and having defects after they move into the house.

WHAT IS A PROPERTY INSPECTION?

A pre-purchase inspection is a professional and objective evaluation of the current condition of a property. The purpose of the pre-purchase inspection is to uncover existing faults and identify potential problems. This is the most commonly used property inspection requested by buyers purchasing an existing property.

WHY IS PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION IMPORTANT?

The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. It is advisable to make an intelligent decision based on all the facts before you buy, in doing so you can avoid costly repairs and/or disputes during the transfer process. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase and will be able to make a confident buying decision.

If you are a homeowner, a property inspection can identify problems early on and recommend preventative measures which might avoid costly future repairs.

AGAINST WHAT WILL A PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION PROTECT YOU FROM?

Home inspections are used to provide an opportunity for a buyer to identify any major issues with a home prior to closing. Your first clue that a home inspection is important is that it can be used as a contingency in your contract with the seller. This contingency 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. The potential problems a home can have must be pretty serious if they could allow you to walk away from such a significant contract.

WHAT A PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION COVERS

Inspectors vary in experience, ability, and thoroughness, but a good inspector should examine certain components of the home and then produce a report covering his or her findings. The typical inspection lasts two to three hours and you should be present for the inspection to get a first-hand explanation of the inspector’s findings and, if necessary, ask questions. Also, any problems the inspector uncovers will make more sense if you see them in person instead of relying solely on the snapshot photos in the report.

The inspector will inspect the following:

  • Roof
  • Foundation
  • Exterior walls
  • Grading
  • Garage and Carports
  • Interior of property
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical
  • Water Heater System

The inspector should note:

  • Whether each problem is a safety issue, major defect, or minor defect
  • Which items need replacement and which should be repaired or serviced
  • Items that are suitable for now but that should be monitored closely

A really good inspector will even tell you about routine maintenance that should be performed, which can be a great help if you are a first-time homebuyer

Prepared by CORE Valuations.

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