ORDER YOUR HOME INSPECTION
Your offer to purchase a home should always be contingent on a satisfactory home inspection. Even if a home inspection is not required by the lender, it is always advisable to have one done. The standard P&S provides that if the inspection uncovers any “significant” defects that were not previously disclosed to you, you may cancel the P&S. This may also give you an opportunity to negotiate new terms with the seller. If major repairs are needed, ask the seller to reduce the price of the home. That way you can fix the problem to your satisfaction. Keep in mind that any such negotiated settlement must be in writing and made part of the P&S. A good home inspection will identify any issues or problems with the property and can provide you with helpful information about future maintenance needs.
Reliable home inspectors are usually those who practice the profession as their full-time occupation and belong to a professional organization, such as the National Association of Building Inspection Engineers (NABIE) or the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). Consider hiring an inspector who is a licensed engineer, as engineers are legally qualified to render opinions on home inspections.
Ask the inspector for references, and don’t be afraid to call the references to verify that they are legitimate, satisfied customers. Here are some other things to ask your home inspector.
Do they carry errors and omissions insurance?
Will they provide you with a detailed written report or a checklist style report?
Will the report provide an overall opinion of the property as compared to others of similar age and construction type?
Is an inspection for wood-destroying insects included as part of their standard inspection?
Will they inspect the roof from the ground or from the roof itself?
Does the inspection include a evaluation of the condition of the chimneys?
Will they prioritize needed repairs and create a maintenance and repair plan to help you take care of your home?
Most homes will need some repair. If your inspector finds that an overwhelming number of repairs are needed, or if the repairs are major items like wiring or a furnace, you might want to negotiate these items with the seller or look for a home that requires fewer repairs.