Home Inspections

In order to feel comfortable hiring a home inspector in Brooklyn, it is important to understand what to expect from an inspector and what your rights are as a client. Many home inspectors, both legitimate and illegitimate, will prey upon clients who do not know what a proper inspection would consist of. By doing cheap and careless inspections, it is possible to carry out a great many "inspections" and turn a larger profit. You can guard yourself, your family and your investment by being acquainted with the home inspection process before the actual inspection is carried out.

A home inspection is not a walk-through and a verbal assurance that all is sound in the structure with, perhaps, a few comments about loose base boards or creaky hinges. A home inspection should include, but is not limited to, the heating system, the plumbing work, the electrical system, the hot water tank, the structural integrity, the roof, the doors and windows, the exterior landscape and the drainage systems. Moreover, a home inspector is not an engineer. He or she is there to make visual observations and record them for the inspection report.

The post-inspection report is the article you are buying when you hire a home inspector in Brooklyn. The report should be provided to you, the client, within five business days of the inspection. It should consist, essentially, of a list of observations about the home and its amenities as they rate to present and future living conditions in the residence. More specifically, the report should outline which systems and components of the residence were observed and what the condition of those systems and components appeared to be in at the time of the inspection. It should be noted, that a home inspection will not include ancillary services, such as air testing for mold spores or assessing radon gas concentrations.

Before you have a home inspection conducted, it would be prudent to clearly define and outline with the inspector what exactly will be included in the inspection so there are no surprises when the report is produced. Most professional home inspectors will protect themselves by going over with the client what their service will include. However, as we have seen, some individuals and firms will prey on clients who have little knowledge of the process and what to expect from a home inspection in Brooklyn.

The post-inspection report is confidential. The client must pre-approve of any disclosure of the report to any other party, interested or otherwise. If the home inspector you hire does not seem concerned about these sorts of details, he likely isn't all that ethical and you should probably look for a more professional inspector to hire.

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Many real estate companies are engage in home inspection firm. Findings and report of qualified inspector of property ensures that an investment of the buyer is safe and secure. Appraisers know the importance of home inspection for properties on sale. Though, this is an added cost on part of the buyer it is a plus in order to complete a decision whether to buy or not. Home inspectors offer an evaluation of work on the condition of the houses and provide notes on the additional work needed. Home Inspection Certification can be obtained when a series of course or training has been completed. It is known to be a high paying job nowadays.

To distinguish the importance of home inspection certification from other fields of studies, consider the following examples- In Information Technology, a CCNA certification is needed as a proof of one's ability to have a foundation of working with Cisco routers and switches. On the medical side, there is certification and training for phlebotomy. It is a high paying job that involves the process of collecting sample specimens for blood test, urinalysis and cultures. In real property industry, a certified home inspector shows that a person is a professional and qualified to provide an assessment on the overall condition of a house before selling or buying. In a more detailed ways, the certified ones do not stop from scrutinizing the outside of a home, but, he or she will further check the inside of the house. Visual damage can easily assess but those unseen damages like cracks underneath floorings may not be found. A new home inspection nowadays allows inspectors to perform their task in various stages of the property's construction.

How to get a home inspection certification? Getting one is not easy and cannot be completed in a week or few months. It requires a series of trainings and education because a sizable knowledge of theories is being taught. The foundation starts with taking up a course in order to be a qualified inspector. Then, choosing a professional organization and maintaining a membership. Certifications are provided by many different training schools. Part of getting a home inspection certification is teaching the students to identify the kinds of defects in home that may incur additional cost to buyer. A home inspector, in the end, provides a report after examining the entire property. There are classroom and online courses. Information is vital and continuous learning is important. Keeping up with the latest trends and updates gives a qualified home inspector an added new knowledge and become more marketable.

Even if the real estate industry is unsteady, there are many houses being sold and bought. It signals strength in home inspection career. Consumers are increasingly becoming aware on every detail of their property. Thus, a career in home inspecting is increasingly demanding and rewarding. A certified inspector for homes may choose whether to be a self-employed professional or join in a company that provides this kind of services. A Home Inspection Certification is important to pursue a career in home inspecting.

Most people, that have either bought a home in the past or that are considering such a purchase, are familiar with Home Inspections. A widely accepted and succinct definition of a Home Inspection is:

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.

A thorough home inspection should include a general and visual assessment of all parts of the home in accordance with a set of prescribed or adopted standards. There are different types of inspections...with those different types having a bit more to do with the clients intended use of the home inspection report rather than of any significant variations in the inspection process itself.

Some of the different types of Home Inspections as they relate to intended use are:

• The Pre-Purchase Inspection - This is, by far, the most common type of inspection; it's performed for and on behalf of a client that is buying a home. They want to know the condition of the home before they buy it...that makes sense, right?


• The Pre-Listing Inspection - This is an inspection that's performed for the selling party...the people that might be selling their home. Typically, this type of inspection is accomplished prior to the home being placed for sale on the market. The seller wants to know about the condition of the home so that there are minimal surprises once the home has gone under contract. This type of inspection is sometimes referred to as a Sellers Inspection


• Consult Inspection - Sometimes, a person might want to know about a particular aspect of their home...they might not want to know about everything that might be wrong but are concerned about a single aspect of a home...say, the condition of the roof. This type of inspection is sometimes referred to a Consult Inspection or a Single-Item inspection and might be appropriate for some people in certain circumstances.


• New Construction Inspection - This is a very common type of inspection conducted for the buyer of a newly completed home.


• The 11 Month Warranty Inspection - This inspection is commonly requested by a home-owner who has purchased a newly constructed home and is nearing the end of their 1 Year warranty period. It helps to identify issues that might need to be corrected under the builders warranty program.

If you have ever purchased a home or are thinking of buying your first house, you no doubt already know that it is wise to have a home inspection as a condition of your agreement of purchase and sale. You may, however wish to consider adding a thermal imaging inspection also.

Relatively new to the residential real estate market thermal inspections may become a permanent fixture to every real estate transaction in much the same way as conventional home inspections have been for the past 25 years or so.

What is a Thermal Imaging Inspection?

Unlike a conventional home inspection which is visual, a thermal imaging inspection will uncover problems that are hidden to the naked eye. Using infra-red cameras thermal imaging will provide with invaluable information with issues such as water leaks in basements, energy loss, electrical faults and wood destroying infestations.

Mould Growth

Conventional home inspectors will usually tell you they have no knowledge in mould issues beyond what is apparent on the surface. If mould growth has started behind paneling or tiles for example it may not be visibly noticeable on the surface and go undetected. A thermal inspection will reveal the problem to you.

Water Leaks

Often conventional home inspectors will find surface evidence of water leaks in basements or ceilings, and the good will of sellers is relied upon when asked if the problem has been fixed. Want to know for sure? A thermal inspection will reveal if the issue still exists and where the source of the problem exists, giving you the peace of mind that only certainty can bring.

Energy Loss

The efficient use of energy is high on a home buyers mind these days. A thermal inspection will show you where heat loss is occurring around windows, doors, ceilings and attics.

The following are some other areas where a thermal imaging inspection will detect problems not easily seen by a surface inspection: -

• Hidden electrical faults that are possible fire hazards
• Overloaded electrical circuits
• Missing insulation
• Hidden roof leaks
• Hidden plumbing leaks
• Air conditioner compressor leaks
• Structural problems and defects

If you are close to buying your first home or your second, it is probably a good idea to include a conditional home inspection clause, but you may also want to consider adding a thermal imaging inspection. For most, a home will be the single largest investment of a lifetime. Wouldn't you like to know the true condition of the home you will be living in?

The residential home inspection is designed to help the client avoid buying a money pit. Any home inspection that does so brings significant savings to the buyer, not only financially but also in terms of worry and stress. But these are not the only savings. The inspection helps to protect the client's investment and to prevent housing nightmares, both large and small. In essence, the it helps the buyer become familiar with the ins and outs of his or her new residence and to know what to expect from it both in the near term and down the road.

A home inspection can be likened to giving the candidate house a physical checkup. You want to find out what condition it's in. The inspector works from a thorough checklist to examine all systems and components. These range from site conditions, exterior, and roof to the plumbing, electrical, and heating systems, to the garage, attic, interior rooms, and crawlspace. A good home inspector not only tries to assess current serviceability for each of these categories but also looks for signs of potential danger to person and/or damage to property. The idea is to save the buyer headaches now and in the future.

Let's look at two examples. Suppose the house you like has a deck, which is mounted to the house with a ledger board and supported elsewhere with wooden posts resting on concrete footings. The inspector determines the deck's structural integrity and its resistance to both vertical (static weight) and lateral (wind and dynamic shifts in weight) forces. He calls out a defect if lag bolts or through bolts aren't used to attach the ledger board. Use of other fasteners, such as nails, runs the risk of having the deck collapse, which is a serious safety issue the inspection helps to avert.

Another example involves combining a pest inspection with the home inspection (requiring two separate licenses in some states). A qualified pest inspector knows how to look for evidence of infestation, wood damage from insects and other organisms (such as rot), and conducive conditions for such organisms. Uncovering such evidence could potentially save the client thousands of dollars in extensive repairs.

Uncovering problems, even major ones, doesn't necessarily kill the deal. The buyer, who typically makes closing contingent on the inspection, can use the report findings to negotiate a reduction in price or to request the seller to complete itemized repairs. But in all these choices, the home inspection has saved the buyer money, either immediately or in the long run.

It is important to understand that a home inspection can be very valuable to both the seller and the buyer of a home. For obvious reasons the home inspection is valuable to the buyer as the inspector will point out any serious defects in the home as well as the overall condition of the home before the home is purchased.

First off, let me explain what a home inspection actually consists of for those who are a little unclear.

A home inspection is an evaluation of the visible and accessible systems and components of a home such as the plumbing system, electrical system, roof, etc. Most importantly a home inspection can usually detect any structural problems with a house. Structural concerns include the foundation, exterior wall system, interior load bearing walls, floor system and roof system. Problems with any of these items can result in substantial repair costs.

This inspection report can also be valuable to a seller. If a seller has a home inspection preformed before they list the house, the seller will have a "heads up" on any defects in their home. They may elect to fix some or all of defects so they will not become an issue to the new buyer prior to closing. And most times the seller will get things repaired or replaced at a cost much lower than when the buyers look for repair credits before the closing.

Home inspections are just as important for real estate investors (who become sellers), who buy houses in "as-is" condition. Even though many investors can see most of the things that need repair, and know the house needs fixing, they tend to overlook some of the issues that need repair and don't figure it into their cost estimate. Then they are faced with the repairs at closing. A favorable inspection report can give you the added comfort that you are not buying your next nightmare!

I suggest investors (as well as any seller) get a home inspection report as it will help identify all the issues that need to be addressed. Then, the investor can use that report to show the contractor what needs to be replaced, fixed or repaired. And it's the little (and sometimes the not so little) things that investors miss or overlook that can add up and also hold up a closing.

Things such as, grading and drainage issues causing water penetration into the house or from down spouts not properly angled away from the foundation. Also missing fascia boards (boards nailed across the ends of roof rafters at the eaves), missing or damaged eves and soffits. And don't forget the plumbing, water heater and appliance vents, water pressure, electrical capacity, etc. See, many things most of us never think about.

If you think about it, you are paying someone to do a fairly comprehensive diagnostic test on the home. To tell you all the things you are not trained to find.

So I say, why not know about any defects and repair items BEFORE you buy or put the house up for sale.

When ever the word "safety" or "hazard" comes up in a home inspection report, everyone's antenna goes up! Having the report and repairing the necessary items before the buyers get their home inspection will drastically reduce the amount of items being found by the buyer's home inspection.

And if you are an investor, you could have gotten the repairs completed for a minimal fee as your contractor is working in the house anyway doing the renovation work. After the renovation is completed and the workers are gone and you need to get them back, it usually will cost much more as now they are coming for a "new job". So why not address those repair issues before time. It makes sense to me!

Now bear in mind, you can sometimes have twenty "suggested" items to be addressed. When twenty or so of these small items are put on the report, this leads to buyers getting scared, and or the buyers asking for big credits and costing you much more money.

In summary, if you are buying a home, selling a home or if you are investing in a home, a home inspection report by a licensed home inspection company will open your eyes to any and all defects that could become an issue when you go to sell or flip the house. My opinion is that a home inspection is worth the small fee that is charged. Most states have adopted standards of practice from the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI.)

Oh, one last thing. Always get a termite inspection. Some home inspection companies are licensed to offer this service as well. But I always like to get the termite inspection by someone who can actually perform any necessary treatment.

When our Raleigh Home Inspection firm office telephone rings, often the first question asked is "How much do you charge for a Home Inspection?". And a fair question it is...though I suspect that such a caller is really searching for the best deal rather than the lowest price...or maybe they should be. Let me suggest that a more appropriate question might be "How much is your Home Inspection worth? Until one understands what the potential worth of a Home Inspection might be, how can one decide whether or not any particular price is a good deal? We're all looking for good deals. But the cheapest price for a service isn't necessarily the best deal. In the instance of a Home Inspection, whether or not you get a good deal might not become known until it is literally too late for you...after you have hired a cheap, inexpensive Home Inspector and later realized that the Home Inspector and their Home Inspection report were sub-standard and deficient. And now, you're in no position to negotiate any repairs...you own the defects that weren't reported or made known to you. If you hire a cheap Home Inspector, you not only don't know what you'll get, you might not know what you got for some time to come.

Let us examine two points...

First, someone who inquires about cost as the primary factor has very likely assumed that all Home Inspectors are created equal and that they offer the same product...this is absolutely one of the most horrendous assumptions that you can make...it just isn't so. Experienced, professional Home Inspectors don't offer cheap "bargain basement" pricing because to do so would short-change their years of experience and dedication to the industry and to their previous clients. They know that some other inspectors, maybe "new" or inexperienced inspectors, or those that work part-time, or worse...those that are un-professional or just don't give the proverbial "rusty rat's hind end" about much of anything, might charge less but that the service they offer is also worth far less. And, it could be that the "cheap" Home Inspector may have to charge unrealistically low prices to attract any business at all. When an inquiring caller relates that "Inspector X will do the inspection for $175.00...", one has to assume that Inspector X knows what their service is worth...and it may not be worth your potential disappointment and heartache.

Secondly, let's do some basic math...let's assume that you are buying a $250,000 home. Real estate agents charge between 3 and 7 percent commission to help you find the home of your dreams....so you might pay between $7500 and $17,500 for their services...you'll pay upwards of $300 for an appraisal that the bank requires but that you may not ever even get to see...you'll probably pay a significant amount to the closing attorney and there will likely be hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in total closing costs...and then there's the Home Inspection. If an Inspection fee for that $250,000 house were, say...$400.00...then that would be 0.16 percent of the purchase price...that's a fair amount for a reasonably new home...if it were an older home and the fee were 500.00 then that would amount to 0.2 percent of the purchase price.

I have also heard it suggested that the total fees for a Home Inspection and all other types of pre-purchase due diligence type of inspections (termite inspection, Radon-In-Air testing, property survey, etc.) might be worth somewhere in the neighborhood of between one half and one mortgage payment...so by example, if the principle and interest mortgage payment were calculated to be say 1500.00 per month, and the total Home Inspection fee with radon in air testing were $650.00, then that amount would be less than one half of 1 mortgage payment. Depending on your financing, you might be on the hook for that payment amount every month for many years...year after year after year. Certainly you want to know the real physical condition of the property that you are buying...that knowledge is of extreme importance both to your peace of mind and to your financial well-being.

When pondering how much you should pay for a Home Inspection, you would do well to consider the relative value and all the professionalism, experience, and credentials of the Home Inspectors that you might be considering. After you've figured out what a Home Inspection is worth to you...and after you have narrowed down your choices to one or two professional inspectors...then go for the best deal.

When you're in the market for a home, have that dream home inspected by a qualified professional home inspector. Why? Because a home inspector will give you a report on the overall condition of the home. You'll get an in depth, unbiased perspective you can't get from a walk through with your real estate agent.

A home inspection evaluates the overall physical condition of the home, including the structure, the overall construction, as well as the mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems. Your inspector's report will Estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems and equipment. It will also help identify things in need of repair or replacement.

Remember this very important point. An appraisal and a home inspection are two different things. Appraisals are for lenders. They are required to estimate the value of the home and make sure it is marketable. Appraisals are used to make sure the house meets minimum property standards and requirements if it is an FHA loan.

On the other hand, the home inspection is meant for you, the prospective buyer. You'll get a report that serves as a snapshot of the home's condition. It's not designed to be a list of negatives, but rather is intended to give you an objective outlook to help you in your decision making process as you consider whether to buy the home.

The report is not a pass or fail grade card, but gives you facts you need. It also isn't supposed to favor the home's seller or buyer. It should tell you the home's strengths and weaknesses. It should be the home inspector's goal to report what he finds with objectivity and fairness.

What if the home inspector finds problems with the home? You may be wondering, if you are buying the home with FHA financing, does FHA guarantee the value and condition of the home? In a word, No. Keep this in mind. If you find problems with your new home after closing, FHA can not give or lend you money for repairs. They also can not buy the home back from you. This underscores the importance of getting a thorough and independent home inspection done on the home before you decide to buy.

There's another critical point to consider. Don't accept a report from a previous inspection of the home. A fresh home inspection must be done to insure the home's condition is reported accurately for you.

Though your agent may seem like a hero for saving you money when passing along a report from a previous inspection, he's really being unethical. Home inspection reports are confidential material for the buyer who ordered the inspection. Furthermore, things change, and the report likely doesn't reflect the true condition of the home at the time you want to buy it.

Suppose you rely in a previously done inspection when you buy and move into your home. Then what if the roof leaks or the air conditioner doesn't cool properly? You're stuck with major repairs due to lack of proper documentation. This wouldn't have been an issue if you had a new home inspection done. Perhaps systems worked fine during the previous inspection. If so, the inspector can't be held at fault. Furthermore, the problem is compounded because you weren't the one who hired the inspector to begin with.

Seeking relief from your real estate agent is awkward because he supposedly did you a favor. Yet he provided the report improperly. If the previous prospective buyer hears of this, she'll be upset and feel betrayed by the agent because she paid for the inspection, and the agent broke confidentiality. This is bad for business when such relationships depend on trust.

Until you receive an inspector's report from a fresh inspection, the information you need for making your buying decision is incomplete and perhaps inaccurate. By hiring a home inspector to do a new home inspection, you're actually looking out for your own best interest.

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection, as defined, is an examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, which provides a detailed 'snapshot' of the condition of the home at the time of the inspection. The purpose of a home inspection is to help reduce some of the risk involved in purchasing a home; however, it cannot eliminate those risks, nor can the inspector anticipate future events or changes in performance due to changes in use or occupancy. The inspection will cover any potential health and safety issues in addition to areas in need of repair or replacement.

In Texas, inspectors must be licensed by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), and are required to comply with the TREC Standards of Practice when inspections are performed for a prospective buyer or seller of a one-to-four family residential property. The Standards of Practice are the minimum levels of inspection practice required of inspectors for the accessible parts, components, and systems typically found in improvements to real property.

Keep in mind that the inspector is not required to move any furnishings or stored items. Therefore, it is always a good idea to ensure the access to all the major components of the home is clear prior to the inspection commencing.

In the report, the inspector will note which items were Inspected (I), Not Inspected (NI), Not Present (NP), and/or Deficient (D). General deficiencies include inoperability, material distress, water penetration, damage, deterioration, missing parts and unsuitable installation. Items identified on the report do not obligate either the Seller or the Buyer to make any repairs or take any other action. The decision to correct a hazard or any deficiency identified in an inspection report is left to the parties to the contract for the sale or purchase of the home.

Please keep in mind that there may be several items on the report that are related to building codes or safety issues - and very few homes will comply with these. These same conditions may not have violated building codes or common practices at the time of the construction of the home, or they may have been 'grandfathered' because they were present prior to the adoption of codes prohibiting such conditions. The inspection is still required by law to report these items as deficient if found not to comply.

Why do I need a home inspection?

The purchasing of your home may be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unwanted surprises, you will want to learn as much as you can about the condition of the home BEFORE you purchase it. An inspection may identify the need for repairs, as well as the need for maintenance to better protect your investment. After the inspection, you will know more about the property, which will aid you in making an informed decision as to purchase the home or not.

What does a home inspection cost?

The inspection fee for a typical single-family property varies depending upon a number of factors such as: size of the house; its age, particular features of the house (slab foundation, crawl space, etc...); and possible option systems inspected. Typically, a home inspection costs around $250 to $400...plus any 'optional' services, such as: lawn sprinkler systems; swimming pools, spas, hot tubs and associated equipment; outbuildings; outdoor cooking equipment; gas supply systems; private water wells; septic systems; whole-house vacuum systems; and other built-in appliances. Cost should not be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection - due to the potential costs involved should you decide NOT to have it inspected.

Can a home 'fail' an inspection?

No, an inspection is an examination of the current condition of the home. There is no 'pass' or 'fail' rating issued.

When do I schedule the home inspection?

Once the purchase contract has been signed, you will want to schedule your home inspection right away. This is because you will want to find out about any potential problems, have time to schedule any additional inspections that may be required, and of course...time to negotiate repairs with the Owner. All of this will need to occur DURING your option period. Should it exceed the time frame of your option period, and you have not extended the option period, you are stuck with purchasing the home, no matter what additional problems may be revealed in the condition of the home.

Should I attend the inspection?

If you are the Buyer, I recommend you have the inspector call you before his inspection is concluded. Allow yourself enough time to get there and attend a final walk-through with the inspector. You will want him to show you any potential problems - also, feel free to ask any questions about his report. If you are the Seller, you have every right to attend; however, I recommend that you do not follow the inspector around the house trying to justify any deficiency he writes down.

What if deficiencies are found in the home?

If the inspector identified any deficiencies, this does not mean that you should not purchase the home. It only notifies you in advance of what you can expect. Perhaps the major issues can be negotiated out, and the minor issues can be repaired by you after you purchase the home. Do not 'nit-pick' every little item on the report. That is a good way to get the Seller ticked off.

As the Seller, how do I prepare my home for the inspection?

• Ensure all utilities are turned on
• All pilot lights are lit
• All locks are to be removed or unlocked from areas that may prohibit the inspector accessing, such as attics, doors, padlocks on gates, etc...
• Attic access is clear. If attic access is in the garage, be sure there are no cars, shelving units, moving boxes, storage crates blocking the access. If attic access is in a hallway or closet, make sure thee are no light fixtures or furniture blocking the access panel or pull-down ladder
• Crawl space (if applicable) access is clear
• Electrical panels are accessible and not locked
• Water heater is accessible
• Furnace is accessible
• Cooling system is accessible
• Built-in kitchen appliances are accessible and ready to operate
• Pets are secure

Spending a couple hundred dollars on the inspection, can potentially save you thousands of dollars.

Getting your home inspected is one of the most vital steps you can take to ensure your new home is everything you expect - a high quality structure, safe for your family, and a compelling long-term investment.

Unfortunately, many people do not fully comprehend the mechanics of a home inspection OR what they are required to do to get the most out of it. A big mistake with this process can result in time intensive and costly repairs. Read more to find out what home inspectors feel are the five biggest mistakes home buyers make during the home inspection.

Avoiding an inspection since the home is "new"

It has been observed that even expert homebuyers sometimes make this costly mistake. Their assumption is that by clearing all local codes and ordinances, a home must be in good shape. However, not all home builders are of equal quality. Some take shortcuts to boost their profits at the expense of the future occupants. It requires a thorough home inspection to identify potential problems with the foundation or structure.

Just because the home has passed its code inspection, do not assume that the builder or the contractors have completed all the necessary work. Your home inspector can detect potential problems and alert you to any potentially costly future work.

Choosing a "wrong" home inspector

When choosing a home inspector, you're actually selecting a professional who is qualified to give your home a top-to-bottom checkup. Therefore, it is vital to go with someone who is knowledgeable, detail-oriented, professional and reliable. First-time buyers often make the mistake of selecting the least expensive home inspection company. Unfortunately, such "low cost" inspectors often lack the resources and experience to thoroughly investigate your future home.

It is important to ask the home inspection company about the licensing, credentials, and experience of the home inspectors who will be inspecting your home. This is not a decision to be taken lightly!

Not being "present" during the inspection

Though the home inspection report may provide you with detailed information about your home, it can never replicate the experience of partaking in the inspection or interacting with the inspector. The face-to-face interaction is beneficial since it allows you to ask questions that arise as you walk the home.

Ignoring the inspector's recommendations

Many buyers do not follow-up on the home inspector's recommendation(s) regarding the property. People may fall in love with the home, and avoid confronting the seller about their concerns. Doing so may result in a very expensive repair, and a bad case of buyer's remorse.

It is imperative to pay attention to the home inspector's recommendations and solicit a thorough estimate of necessary repairs.

Expecting "too much" from the home inspector

Even a professional and experienced home inspector cannot predict the condition of your home in the long-term. The inspector can point out the current problems and potentially identify certain future issues that may eventually arise. Regardless, certain problems are unidentifiable. For example, it is impossible to predict future weather that could impact the quality of the roof.

It is important to remember that a home inspector is hired by to comprehensively review the property in question. The inspector provides you with the report based on the current condition of the home - clairvoyance is not part of the job description!

Home Inspection is defined as the process by which a home inspector observes and provides a written report of the systems and components of a residential building including but not limited to the roof, heating, insulation, air conditioning, windows, electrical wiring, plumbing, drainage along with giving you the confidence you need to complete your transaction and guarantees a fair and smooth closing. It is also important to know what a home inspection is not. It is not protection against future failures, not a guarantee that problems won't develop after you move in, not an appraisal that determines the value of a home and not a code inspection, which verifies local building code compliance. The inspection is the single most important investment and probably the least costly you can make for your home purchase. It is a visual, functional, non-invasive inspection of the readily-accessible elements conducted without moving personal property, furniture, equipment, plants, soil, snow, ice, or debris. Also one of the smartest ways to educate yourself about the physical condition of a property you want to buy, an inspection, is in the best interest of the buyer, the seller and the agents. It is for your safety, your financial protection as well as your peace of mind by helping you identify potential problems, surveying the property condition, and helps in considering possible repairs and/or updates.

The purpose, is for the inspector to find defects for you, so you can present them to the seller and negotiate the price of the house, or a solution to the problem. Normally, the fees are paid for by the buyer, although more and more sellers are retaining the services of a professional before sale negotiations begin. The misconception that construction experience is the only background needed to perform a quality inspection is a common mistake. The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) publishes a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what you should expect to be covered and reported on. When the process is complete, the inspector will issue a report to the home buyer detailing what was found.

The standard home inspector's report will include an evaluation of the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure, so that he/she can plan for needed repairs and upgrades when it is time to make them. You will also find that written reports are easier to understand if you've seen the property firsthand through the inspector's eyes.

The whole process will enable you to take control of your real estate transaction and take a measure of your investment decision and experience confidence and peace of mind about your investment and any negotiation. The purpose of a home inspection is to provide a comfort level or to make the buyer aware, and in some cases, a guarantee, that the home you are buying is not about to fall down. A home inspection is critical for knowing the condition of the property you are looking to purchase, however, it should be clearly understood that a buyer's inspection is not to be confused with an appraisal, a building code inspection, a guarantee of any kind, and/or an insurance policy on the condition of the property, it is designed to help give you "up-front" information so that you can be a well-informed homebuyer.

Charlotte Home Inspection is a service that most prospective buyers seeking to reside in Charlotte NC area must consider an essential prerequisite to buying a home there. It is not prudent at all to overlook the value of having a home inspection. Such a step will compromise the joy of secure and worry free living in your dream home and could cost a lot of money down the road.

A trusted Charlotte Home Inspector will undertake a thorough and meticulous inspection of every home. It is also most advantageous to most real estate brokers who want to offer only the best quality homes to their prospective buyers to recommend to the sellers to have their homes inspected before putting them on the market. It is very desirable for sellers because they can be confident that their house will pass the buyer's inspection and won't have to reduce the price or pay for unexpected repairs at the closing.

A diligent Charlotte home inspector will apply the principle of inspecting homes as if they were choosing a home for their own family. Dependability and personal touch are hallmarks of a respected Charlotte home inspection service. Services that a Charlotte home inspector should provide include inspections on the following areas: structural integrity, roofing components, exterior integrity, plumbing system, heating system, electrical system, interior, central air conditioning, insulation, ventilation and built-in kitchen appliance.

When choosing a Charlotte home inspector, it is important to review the qualifications of the inspector. It is notable that there are numerous do-it-yourself electricians who might have re-wired or fixed the electric systems in the house. This can often pose a great consternation among the licensed home inspectors. Electrical defects can pose a major concern since they can cause serious dangers to the home residents from risk of electric shocks, short circuiting and even burning of the house. This makes the services of licensed and qualified home inspectors highly valuable to ensure safety and reliability and structural integrity of the house.

A licensed Charlotte home inspector will always follow a code of standard practices from uniformly established set of guidelines promoting quality home inspection services. One way to get the best Charlotte home inspector is through referral from a trusted person that is not a commercially motivated referral from the real estate agent. It is important to consider that sales agents are given a commission for every home sold. Some unscrupulous agents might be tempted to downplay the problems in the house they are selling or recommend their own preferred home inspectors. There is a potential conflict of interest and an educated consumer is the best guarantee against encountering unforeseen problems.

It is always wise to have a trusted Charlotte home inspector check the property you are planning to buy to ensure its safety, quality and to obtain an honest report of the condition of the property you want to own. In the current down market conditions (a buyer's market) a pre-sale inspection from a reliable Charlotte home Inspector will go a long way in assuring the buyer and helping in the sale of the property. Furthermore, the inspection report provides an amount of protection in case any problems arise in future.

One can find many Charlotte home inspection service providers in Charlotte and in North and South Carolina that meet the highest quality standards of providing credible, reputable and reliable home inspection report. Their services benefit real estate brokers and their buyers and home owners as well.

As a real estate agent I always suggest a home inspection. Keep in mind that not all home inspections and home inspectors are created equal. A home inspection is a thorough visual examination of the condition of the home performed by a qualified home inspector. By qualified you should look for someone from a reputable company that's been in business for a number of years and carries errors and omissions insurance. In Canada you should also look for an inspector that is part of a professional organization such as the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors.

For investors getting a home inspection is important before jumping in so as to identify any unforeseen repairs that a property might need. Repairs mean more cost, and cost means taking a bite out of profit. For owner occupiers an inspection can allow you to take more control over the negotiating process and ultimately the purchase price. It also allows you to avoid unexpected remediation that could put a strain on your ability to upkeep the home and service the debt used to finance the home. The last thing you want to buy is a money pit.

A professional home inspection should go through about 1000 points on around 400 different items on the home. The items inspected involve the operation and observation of all the systems in a home including but not limited to the plumbing, heating, electrical, interior finish, structural components, and outside envelope. While a thorough inspection can take about 3-4 hours, the home owner and buyer's real estate agent should be present at the end to take a walk though with the inspector and discuss firsthand the condition of the property's main components. This is also a good opportunity to talk about what might appear to be a serious problem on paper in the report, but in reality may be fairly superficial. On top of the verbal report back, also make sure that you receive all the findings in writing, as they prove useful for documenting accountabilities and concerns, as well as the ongoing maintenance of the property.

It's important to keep in mind that there are limitations to a home inspection as it's impossible to see through walls, under floors, beyond the foundation, and any other area that isn't accessible without causing major damage to the home to get there. If there do appear to be concerns with major areas that need further investigation, it's recommended that you hire a specialist in that area. For example if there are cracks in the foundation you might want to hire a structural engineer, or if the property is serviced by a well or septic system showing signs of dysfunction, that you hire professionals specific to those areas of expertise to assess those systems. If you have hired a good home inspector on the first place, they will recommend where additional expertise is needed.

Last but not least remember that home inspections can also conduct home energy evaluations and suggest improvements with will increase the cost of running and comfort of your home. Home inspections will allow you to manage your expenses and costs in the short run, in the long run, and help protect the value of your investment.

To avoid "buying a pig in a poke," buyers have long demanded the closing on a home purchase be contingent upon a satisfactory inspection by a home inspection firm. In many parts of our country, we're now experiencing a strong sellers' real estate market and sellers often receive more than one purchase offer on the same day for their home. In this environment, buyers are rethinking the home inspection requirement. Is this a good idea?

To Inspect or Not To Inspect

Clearly, if a seller got two offers and one requires a home inspection be done, most sellers will choose the non-inspection offer with all other things being equal. So, a home inspection requirement can put you at a competitive disadvantage. Still, are you willing to risk purchasing a home that has some fundamental, expensive problems? What if you purchase the home and subsequently learn plumbing under the floors must replaced? What if the repair costs $10,0000?

One option may be to include a provision in your purchase offer that provides for a home inspection done for informational purposes only. That way, settlement under your offer is not conditioned upon the inspection. It would not provide you with the option of amending the contract to have the seller make repairs, nor would it provide a way for you to void the contract should serious problems be uncovered. Should serious problems be discovered, however, the seller is bound to know the deal will be in jeopardy. For that reason, even an "informational" home inspection won't look as good to her as a contract with no requirement for a home inspection.

Another option you might consider in lieu of a home inspection is a sub rosa inspection. Instead of using James Bond for spying, you could ask a friend working in the construction or engineering field to walk through the house with you. The goal, of course, is to look for any glaring "red flags" that are deal killers.

If your friend doesn't see anything disturbing, you can then write a clean contract offer without contingencies. Sellers love no contingency sales. The chances are good that you'll get the home you want, but still have a some assurance there isn't anything seriously wrong with the property.

There is no one right answer when it comes to deciding on home inspections. Each buyer has to ask himself how much risk he is willing to take. If you are the only party making an offer, demand an inspection. If you are one of many potential buyers, well, you are going to have determine your comfort level. Others can provide information, but the decision is yours.

One question I often get in regards to my potentially doing a home inspection for a home buyer is this, "How long does it take to inspect the house?". It varies on the size of the home of course but there is a common range of time needed.

I have been a home inspector in Central Ohio for years. I occasionally hear of a an inspector that spent only 45 minutes at a home and was done. I personally can not see how that is possible. This type of story is sometimes told to me by the seller of the home. Most of the time the seller is not present. The sellers have also told me that they wished they had an inspector that spent more time and did a more thorough job of inspecting when they bought the house.

I hear of the stories of things missed and and how the report was just a few sheets of paper with no photos. When you are looking for a home inspector for your next home purchase be sure to ask the inspector how long does the inspection at the property take. It should take 2.5 to 3 hours to do a thorough home inspection. Most inspectors will take notes during the inspection, I use a laptop computer to take notes and to type in concerns and observations.

Some inspectors will offer the report immediately others will have it completed in a day or so. I have the report done that evening. Placing the images of the inspection in to the report takes time and provides a much easier report to read and understand.

Home inspection reports created with a computer software with images make a more detailed report that is easier to read. Hand written report can be illegible and not very descriptive. Computer reports which have pictures also take some extra time to create. Your home inspector should take 2.5 to 3 hours on site and then some time to write and finish the report. If a home inspector tells he can have the report for you in a much short time, find another inspector because the detail you deserve will likely be missing from the work that they will do.

Buying a home is a major event for most people. Since we do it so infrequently, there are many facets of the process which are not familiar to the average buyer. One very important aspect of the home buying process is getting a professional home inspection.

Home inspections can uncover hidden flaws an untrained person would not notice. Sometimes the inspectors discover defects that could cost hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars to correct. Even when they discover minor flaws, you can add to your contract that the seller will correct them. Alternatively, you will have some ammunition to possibly negotiate a lower price. Here are a few inspection tips:

Home Inspection Tip No. 1

Be sure to select an inspector who has had training and a lot of experience in inspection. An experienced inspector will be familiar with good construction methods, and will recognize any visible defects in the structure, or in the installation of ancillary systems such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. He or she will likely be aware of current recalls of various appliances and what options are available to owners.

Home Inspection Tip No. 2

Choose an inspector from the local area. An inspector from the area will be familiar with local building codes. He or she will also be familiar with common problems associated with the neighborhood, and with individual home builders in the area.

Home Inspection Tip No. 3

Be sure you are present and tag along with the inspector while he or she inspects your potential purchase. Most inspectors prefer you to be there so they can point out specific defects, as well as the good features of your prospective purchase. This will give you a much better understanding of the items in his or her report. Ask questions about anything you see or don't understand.

Home Inspection Tip No. 4

Don't plan on doing your own inspection. There are hundreds of items that need to be inspected. Without formal training or years in the home construction trades, the average person will not be able to recognize many potential defects. A professional home inspection only costs a few hundred dollars to protect your investment of more than 500 times as much. This is no time to be penny wise and pound foolish.

You will get an unbiased evaluation from your inspector. You should expect to get a detailed report, with a description of both good and bad findings, along with appropriate diagrams and photos as necessary to document those findings.

Following the tips above will make you aware of any potential problems, and allow you to proceed with your transaction with the confidence that you are buying a sound property, or will be once any potential defects are addressed. A thorough inspection takes the emotion out of the equation, and gives you peace of mind knowing you are making your decision based on the facts.

A home inspection is going to be needed if you have found the home in this area you are considering buying. Why do you need this inspection? One thing that the inspection will do is tell you if the home is worth the asking price. It may sound like a good deal and you may think it is, but how much do you know about this house?

Inside and Out, from Top to Bottom, the Inspection Must be Thorough

Have you checked the structural aspects of the house? Homes in the east Tennessee area can have problems that are unique to this area with the climate. Because so many split level homes, there are often more issues with mold and mildew in the area.

Do you know how to check them? What about the foundation? When you choose a home inspection, qualified professionals look at all aspects of a home and check for problems that are not visible to the untrained eye. The roof may look fine, but there may be signs that it is leaking in the attic.

A home inspection will entail looking at the outside of the home as well as the inside. The exterior of the home will be checked for broken windows, signs of significant settling of the home resulting in it sloping in one or more spots and proper drainage. If water is standing in the backyard and it has not rained for a month, there is a problem somewhere. Is the air conditioning system functioning properly? How about the heating system?

There are many things that are considered when an inspector conducts a home inspection. If the home has a chimney, is it in good shape? When outside or inside lights are turned on do they flicker? This is probably a sign of an electrical problem. Is there hot water when the faucet is turned in the hot position? The water heater should be inspected as well.

Does the flooring on the inside of the home feel solid? If there are weak spots, this could be flooring that needs replaced and the reasons could vary. Termite inspections should be conducted as well as checking for infestations from other pests. A home inspection is necessary for new homes as well as existing ones. While most new homes are built by reliable construction companies, there are a few that cut corners when it comes to the materials used or other aspects of construction.

When you insist on a home inspection, you will have the peace of mind of knowing that within a few months of moving into your new home, you will not have to start repairing or replacing major parts of the home. Your family's safety will be in jeopardy if electrical problems exist or features of the home, such as fireplaces do not work correctly.

Does the home have sprinklers and if so are they in good working condition? There are so many aspects of a home inspection that it is best left to the professional. So, while you are looking at the home you think you want to buy, it may look fine, but when it comes right down to it, the inspection process is very necessary. This will tell you in the opinion of a professional if the house is worth the asking price or if it is going to be a money pit.

If you are curious to know what happens at the home inspection, it is not all that complicated, although most home inspections are different, and they vary from state to state, and even within the same state, its counties and cities. In addition, home inspectors are not licensed in many states, but that does not take away from the fact that you can find very professional inspector, with lots of experience on the job.

There are things that require a specific license to inspect, so a home inspector's standard practice does not include: Rodents, mold, mildew, and fungi; wood-destroying organisms, lead, radon, methane, radiation and formaldehyde detection.

On the other hand, standard things that are checked during an average home inspection include, but are not limited to: Elements involving structural components; wall, ceiling, floor, roof and foundation construction, exterior evaluation, roof and attic, which does not include a guarantee of roof condition, or a roof certification; plumbing and system components such as the circuit breakers, main panel, wiring, grounding, exhaust fans, receptacles, ceiling fans and light fixtures. The aforementioned are among the things that you can expect during a home inspection.

It will also include appliances, dishwasher, range and oven, built-in microwaves, garbage disposal and smoke detectors, garage, including the slab, walls, ceiling, entry, vents, firewall, garage door, lights, receptacles, windows and roof.

You will get a very detailed home inspection report the report will not describe the condition of an item if it is in excellent shape. However, you should look at your report for the notes that detail serious problems with an item, or the service it may need.

Among the serious problems that you should look for are health and safety concerns, roofs that may have a short life-expectancy, furnace, heater, and/or air conditioning malfunction, foundation problems, and moisture and drainage issues, among others.

You can expect sellers to balk at having to spend large sums of money to fix every issue listed on the home inspection report. This is where your negotiating skills will come into play. You will need to decide which items you can see to fixing yourself, and which items the seller should take care of, but there are sellers who will want to sell the house as is, and they will not move off their price. You are going to have to decide whether the home is worth the price that is being asked and the cost of the repairs.

In addition, if you entrust a repair to an unmotivated seller, it is probable that the seller is going to opt for the lowest cost repair available rather than the best, and to choose the appliances that cost the least.

You are going to have to decide if you can entrust the owner to carry out any major repair, or if it would be better to try to negotiate the price again, or perhaps it would be better to walk away from the deal.

Be aware that no home is perfect, and that even new homes have issues that will turn up in an home inspection report. With this in mind, perhaps you will not be too demanding when it comes time to discuss the inspection report, and the owner may be willing to negotiate.

Once you have decided to purchase a dream home of your own choice, you must opt for a home inspection service and a home inspector. This will help you to determine the actual structure of the home i.e. whether it is a new home or an already existing one. Agencies providing inspection services will help you in choosing the right home and grab the best home deals. These services ease the confusion and stress related to buying a home.

It is not at all an easy task to purchase a dream home. When you buy a home you should consider these two aspects related to the property. First one is the price and other is the location of the home. Whether you are looking for a new home or an existing one, home inspection is necessary. Home inspection services and inspectors will ensure that the home is mechanically and structurally sound. These services prove helpful in tracing any structural issues related to the home and thus alert the buyer about the actual status of the property. You can have an expert evaluation along with a thorough report of the condition of the home chosen for purchase. To have a good deal, you must look for a reputed service and home inspector.

Always feel free to ask queries related to home inspection services and make sure that all the queries have been satisfactorily answered. After the inspection is over, home inspector must discuss the problems and issues in detail. You should also have the knowledge of any maintenance work and repair on the property. Before opting for a home inspection service, check out for all certifications and approvals of the service provider. As this is going to be your biggest investment, do not feel afraid or shy to ask for the trained and experienced professionals to inspect the home you intend to buy.

While the thought of a home inspection can often stress people out, there are many benefits to getting it done. Whether you are planning on purchasing a new home or are looking to properly maintain your current home, the inspection is a must. A home inspection can help to show any problems or damages to a home. Take a look at some of the benefits and consider getting your home professionally inspected today!

• If you are thinking about making a house purchase, it is a good idea to get a proper property inspection. This will help to ensure that the home is in good physical condition. You will want to make sure that there are no serious problems or damages before you complete the transaction. If deficiencies are found, you can try to negotiate with the seller and ask them to pay for some of the problems.
• Regular home inspections can help identify unnoticeable damages. Once owning a home, many people do not realize how important it is to have their home inspected on a regular basis. Having your property inspected yearly can help to alert you of possible functions and execute repairs quickly. If you find damages sooner, it may be less costly.
• A good home inspector will have experience in building systems, construction as well as other trade related skills. This will allow them to notice problems and assess the damages found in a home. A great inspector will also have a lot of experience. You do not want to hire someone who is new to the profession. It is also a good idea to make sure that the inspector belongs to national organization that certifies and monitors the inspection industry. You want an inspector who stays up to date on industry standards and regulations.
• A proper home inspection will cover a variety of elements. This includes everything from examining the exterior and structure of the home to the plumping and electric work throughout the home. An inspector will also look for signs of water damage, construction defects, mold, and many other issues that may occur. It is important to receive a proper home inspection in order to make sure that your home is safe, and meets safety and operational standards.

If you are looking for a way to check the safety of your current home, or want to make sure that a new home purchase is a good idea, get a home inspection. With the help of a professional home inspector, you can make sure that your home has all of the important features operating properly so that it serves for many years.

The warranty home inspection has a clearly defined purpose, that of making the most of any and all warranties applicable to a house before they expire. Such a home inspection most often occurs for houses that were newly constructed when bought and which typically carry a builder's promise to correct construction flaws within a year after closing. However, an older home could also qualify for this service if it is covered by a home warranty policy.

A warranty home inspection is not the same as a re-inspection, though they both involve a return of the same inspector (usually) to perform follow-up work. In the case of a warranty, some time has passed (usually close to a year) and a general reexamination of the entire building is in order. For the re-inspection, the revisit occurs quickly, either just before or just after closing, and the only job is to inspect the repairs of specific called-out defects. Also, on average the warranty inspection costs more because it involves more work.

If the home wasn't inspected when it was purchased, or if it was but the inspector used isn't available now, then the owner has to hire someone who hasn't seen the house before. In that case, the owner should anticipate paying the full fee for a standard inspection and possibly an additional charge for preparing the builder's punch list. If the owner uses the same individual who originally inspected his property, then he can expect to pay a reduced fee for the warranty inspection.

My general approach begins by comparing the current condition of the house with what was documented in the original report, concentrating on previously found defects. Next comes a consultation with the client and a subsequent investigation of any specific issues he raises. The final step is to conduct a limited examination the purpose of which is to discover obvious flaws that have surfaced during the year and that are covered by the warranty.

In more specific terms, the inspector begins the warranty inspection by determining whether all the defects cited in his original report have been properly corrected. If not, he has to decide whether or not a case can be made that they are covered by the warranty. The inspector performs his customary serviceability tests of the plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling systems, as these are items covered by manufacturers' warranties when the house is new and otherwise by the home warranty policy. Here, too, he checks for discrepancies with the original report.

Ideally the inspector is qualified to do, and does, a fairly comprehensive pest inspection. One doesn't expect any significant infestations or like problems in a year's time unless there are areas inordinately wet or moist. So the focus of the pest inspection is on checking for heavy moisture, which is indicative of leaking, condensation, or wicking, none of which should occur in a properly constructed home and are therefore covered conditions.

After investigating specific client concerns, the inspector performs a cursory look at the condition of the roof and structural integrity. He checks the operability and functionality of a representative sample of windows, doors, appliances, and cabinets, again being alert to noticeable discrepancies with his previous report. He is then ready to compile the punch list of items to be presented to the builder or the issuer of the home warranty policy.

Home is the best place that makes the family members share all good and memorable moments together. A home is not just made of cement and bricks, but is initially made by the members of the family residing in it. This heart touching factor and emotional feeling makes home the most important necessity of every human being. Home is the lifetime investment of a person. So, while making such a valuable investment, you should choose and inspect for the right home to live in. Home Inspection Forms are the best option that comes in mind while opting for a dream home.

Nowadays, both the home sellers and buyers look out and consult different home inspection services for getting the exact physical evaluation of the homes. Home sellers benefits as they can come to know about the portions that need to be repaired and maintained to get a good value of the home. Home buyers also grab the best deal by inspecting the home and are more comfortable with the physical check-up of the home to purchase.

Home Inspection Forms are thus an added feature that helps a lot in making important decisions regarding purchasing the best home. These forms are easily available online and are well suited to most of the standards regarding home inspections. Many sites offer these forms that are a basic step towards grabbing a good home for lifetime. Such sites usually charge some nominal membership charges and provide with some good information too. Buyers can get a clearer picture of the physical check-up of the home by making these inspection forms and checklists into consideration.

Apart from hiring a good and trained professional, these Home Inspection Forms also prove out to be a good option. These free of cost forms make a buyer more confident and thus save a good portion of their expenses to be spent on the hired professionals.

You might think it unnecessary but a home inspection will protect you when buying a home. Both new residences and existing dwellings should receive an independent review. Whether the place you are considering is modest, city or suburban, a single family place or a giant mansion, this will serve to protect you and your interests.

This has much to do with your personal safety and the safety of your family. With regards to appliances and electrical systems, malfunctions in these systems can be a hazard to your family. A review helps to ensure that they are functioning like they are supposed to and not wasting electricity.

This is also about efficiency and overall use. It would be terrible if the Christmas lights you've worked so hard on decorating won't light. It's even worse if you receive an electric jolt when you plug them in. This shows that something is wrong with your system and that you need to have it repaired. A home inspector can help protect your family from these types of situations.

What is an inspection and why is it worth your time and money? It is a visual examination of your premises. The purpose of the inspection is to take notice of systems, components, appliances, structures, and installations that might pose a danger or threat to your well being.

The activity is undertaken by a home inspector that has the requisite training and expertise to know when something is wrong or out of place. The quality of the service is largely based on the training and thoroughness of the service professional. Therefore it is imperative that you hire reputable professionals to perform the work.

An inspection covers a broad spectrum of systems. Upon arrival at the premises, the inspector can evaluate the exterior. This means that they will start to scrutinize the doors, windows, exterior walls, roof, gutters and lots more. So don't take it as a personal attack if they note something about the condition of the premises. It's all part of the process of performing their services.

Naturally, the inspection also deals extensively with internal systems. From the attic to the basement, your inspector will examine and report what he finds. Along the way the inspector can and may notice several issues they have with the house. They will warn you about grounding, circuitry, wiring, receptacles, and light fixtures when they deem it as a concern.

And interestingly enough, an able home inspection also covers some appliances. Ask you home inspector what he will be inspecting or review it on their website since this may vary between companies. The home inspector will note all the cautions and dangers that they've observed and list it accordingly in an inspection report.

The report will not have recommendations for the resolution of these problems because it's not good practice. This could be considered to be a conflict of interest. Therefore you will receive a report on the condition of the property along with pictures to support the findings.

Home inspection franchise businesses are becoming more and more popular, as a result of their fast growth potential.

That's because home inspections - once a rarity - happen in more and more home sales each year. In truth, nearly all realtors (99% says a landmark National Realtor Association Study) recommend one to their buyers! US GEO estimates that, "94% of buyers are likely to get a home inspection for future purchases."

That's a lot of potential for smart entrepreneurs pondering an investment into a home inspection franchise opportunity.

What is also exciting is that, nowadays, both sellers and buyers understand the benefits of a having their home inspected. Those buying a house are aware of the fact that it protects their investment. Sellers realize that pre-listing inspections eliminate deal breaking surprises, and are proven to sell homes faster and for higher prices. Now that they no longer have to convince clients to get one, many inspectors are having an easier time finding clients.

So, what makes a great home inspection franchise opportunity? Here are some critical things to look for.

A Powerful Competitive Advantage:

In some towns, home inspectors are all over the place, so in order to be very successful you need to have a competitive advantage over competitors. The best companies provide this competitive advantage, right off the bat. For example, advanced certifications, better or more complete service, and powerful, marketable guarantees can really attract a lot of new business. Some inspection services "sell themselves" over the competition - most do not.

Turnkey Marketing Plan:

When you choose a company to align with, be sure that they give their franchisees a turnkey marketing plan. Nothing is worse than investing in a franchise and discovering that there is little in the way of marketing help, collateral, tools, or a proven plan to land new and repeat clients. The company YOU select should provide this step by step plan to you, including proven marketing pieces, promos, websites, and much more.

Reputation & Experience

Just because a company is looking for franchisees, doesn't mean they've got a business worth buying. Be sure the company that you're considering has stood the test of time and has a great reputation in the industry. Be mindful of who owns the company and their experience in the industry.

Realtor Focus

Realtors are in a unique place to deliver inspection professionals a LOT of clients. Does the franchise you're considering take this into account? Do they have a specialized marketing plan for generating consistent referrals from real estate agents in your location? Make sure they do.

Exclusive Territory

Nothing is worse than purchasing a business only to find that there's a second (or third!) franchisee fighting for clients in YOUR area! A company that values its business owners will issue you an exclusive territory where you can grow without fear of company competition. This is extremely important!

Quotas

A lot of companies charge what's known as a "sliding scale royalty fee" charged against their inspectors' weekly sales, generally in the range of 6 and 9 percent (this is sort of like "taxing" success) plus co-op ad fees of 1 to 3 percent. In addition to that, quite a few franchises demand a monthly minimum or "quota" that must be reached.

These fees bring undue strain on the inspector -- and besides, it's difficult to see how penalizing an inspector (making them pay more as their revenues grow) is fair. Be sure that you understand and agree with the quotas your home inspection franchise expects to charge you. Or better yet, decide on a company that doesn't charge quotas at all... and charges only a flat fee!

If you're interested in saving money, a home inspection checklist would be perfect for you. If you don't feel comfortable doing your own home inspections, you could always use the checklist for pre-home inspections. In other words, you would only use the home inspection checklist for homes that you're seriously consider purchasing. I've been using checklists for years and most home inspectors use checklists for every inspection. If you had their list, couldn't you do your own home inspection or do you think that you need 20 years experience in the construction industry.

I'm here to share something with you, something that most people really don't take the time to learn about. Could you imagine using a home inspector with out any experience building or repairing homes? What about a home inspector with very little experience? Well, the next time you hire a home inspector, ask them how much experience they have repairing, remodeling, building or even doing simple home improvements. Trust me, I've met some of these guys and seen some of their reports. I had one report, where the home inspector missed more things than he found.

With a good home inspection checklist, you could do your own house inspections and save hundreds of dollars. Home inspectors usually charge around $400 for one home inspection. If you could find a home inspection checklist for under $20, you would save $380. What are you waiting for, $20 invested in a $100,000 house, you do the math.

I want you to think about something for a minute here, if you had a house inspection checklist that was free or that you purchased for under $300 and you wound up living in a house that had $20,000 worth of damage, would this purchase be worth it to you. Would this make sense to you now, to have this in your possession. Something that would make or break future financial decisions between your life and yourself.

I'm not asking you to make any rash decisions about anything, just use a little bit of common sense and reasoning. If I was you and you were me and I needed to make a decision for you, I know exactly what I would say and exactly what I would do but that choice is going to be up to you, I can't make it for you and I shouldn't need to make it for you, you should be able to make a decision like this on your own.

Home Inspections in North Carolina

One of the most crucial sections of the NC Offer to Purchase and Contract document covers inspections of the real property to be purchased. It is also one of the areas where many disputes between buyers and sellers start. Recently, the State of North Carolina made a substantial revision to how inspections are handled. Previously, inspections were to major systems of the house and if those systems were, "performing the job for which they were intended," then the inspection was considered successful. In addition to the property inspection, we had the financing contingency which was separate from the property inspections. In January 2011, the Offer To Purchase and Contract was rewritten. The new version of the form retooled the whole property inspection and financing portion of the contract and wrapped them together in the Due Diligence Period. Now the buyer of real property in the State of North Carolina has a negotiated time frame to satisfy themselves that the property under contract is the property they want to purchase. Within this due diligence time period the buyer may terminate and walk from the contract with no further obligations, "for any reason or no reason whatsoever."

The process of performing a home inspection is generally handled by a company that specializes in performing home inspections. By North Carolina law, a home inspector must also possess a NC General Contractors License, so you can rest assured that whomever you hire has some level expertise. The major items covered under a home inspection include, but are not limited to:

Major Items Covered - Home Inspections in NC
• Home- This is a check up for the home and all its mechanical systems. It covers a very large list from windows, doors, roof, and decks to the climate control, electrical, plumbing and other mechanical systems.
• Pest - Otherwise known as wood destroying insects. Generally speaking, this inspection is performed by a pest company such as Terminix and inspects for the presence or previous existence of termites and other wood destroying insects.
• Radon - Radon is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that can cause cancer in certain concentrations and should definitely be tested for. Asheville, NC and surrounding areas are at risk for the presence of Radon Gas. For more information, please visit http://www.epa.gov/radon
• Water - More and more companies are springing up by the day that test the quality of your water source, and I highly recommend that you have a sample of the water tested. It is a small fee and provides some real peace of mind.
• Septic - Septic systems are a little more difficult and costly to inspect. In general a septic can be pumped dry and then inspected for cracks or other anomalies that might constitute some concerns. The cost of having the inspection can run as high as $200-$300 and may not give a complete view of the health and performances of your system. Generally speaking, it is pretty darn easy to tell when a septic system has failed. There will be apparent water standing over the drainage field and more than likely a extremely noticeable odor. Just make sure that you have an approved installation document from the county, attesting to the correct installation of the septic system.

Understanding the Results of Inspections in North Carolina

It is important to note that the inspection report does not say these things must nor need replacing; the report simply makes recommendations based on the shape the system was observed in at the time of inspection. Once you have the inspection report you may then ask the seller to fix or replace any or all items mentioned in the report. The seller, in North Carolina, at that time may or may not agree to any or all of the repair items. In the event, the seller refuses any request you may be able to walk away from the contract, continue with the contract as written or renegotiate the contract. Please keep in mind that if you terminate the contract during your Due Diligence period you are also eligible to receive a full refund of your Earnest Money, but not your Due Diligence fee.

There are a lot of factors to consider when buying a home; you have to consider the location of the home, the size of your family or the number of people to reside in the house, personal taste, and of course, perhaps the most important of all the considerations, the safety and welfare of you the buyer and your family. While the other factors are determinable through the mere exercise of discretion, the last one must simply not be compromised. And how do you make sure that safety and welfare are indeed prioritized? Having a home inspection may just be the answer.

Indeed there are a lot of safety considerations that have to be made when purchasing a home, considerations where the home inspection comes in handy. Being the structure upon which you shall later on rely on for shelter and security, it is only right that you expect your house to be free from defects and for it be of a quality that would make it livable and able to withstand all natural occurrences such as hurricanes and earthquakes. It must be kept in mind that while being protected from all the risks posed by the outside environment, you and your loved ones also have to be protected from those risks which may come from the dwelling itself.

Professionals in the home inspection business have received the proper training, state certification and have the proper insurance to enable them to identify observable material defects within the different components of a person's dwelling. While this process is non-invasive and requires a mere visual examination, it can only be done once a person has had years of experience inspecting homes and learning how to detect these problems. Material defects are those conditions of any residential real property which have an adverse effect on it, oftentimes posing a danger to the safety of its inhabitants and being actually less in value than the amount for which you purchased the house.

There are a lot of risks that a person may not be able to detect, and in a lot of unfortunate cases without a home inspection, these risks merely become apparent once the home has already been purchased. For instance, there may be problems with the ventilation system of the house. Would you personally know how to inspect this component of the house? Also, the electrical system of the house may have some issues with complex matters such as the rating of the service amperage or panel boards and over current devices. If you do not know what these are, chances are you won't know how to inspect them or detect if there's a problem. Considering that these are essential parts of the electrical system of the house, which later on may be a source of fire or electrical dangers, having them inspected is a must.

A person must never compromise safety when choosing a home. After all, that structure where you seek protection and refuge from the dangers posed by the outside world is the last thing you expect to endanger your life and that of your loved ones. What's spending a little more for professional home inspection to get rid of those insecurities about your potential home? In the end, you and your loved ones' welfare make it all worth it.

A Home Inspection is primarily a visual, non-destructive, inspection with limited probing where allowed, with operational tests of systems using normal controls. The home inspection reports on the condition of the home as found on the date of inspection, and makes recommendations to repair, replace, monitor a system if marginal, or recommends further evaluation of a system if this is needed to determine the true condition.

It should not be considered to be an insurance policy against future damages or damaged from concealed or latent conditions that may be present when the home was inspected. There may be conditions that are not identifiable at the time of the inspection because they do not immediately show themselves as problems, but instead progressively deteriorate and require repair or replacement at a future time. For example, a basement filled with stored items can hide defects in the foundation wall framing.

Re-modeling or building an addition onto the home can expose hidden termite damage when walls are opened. A home inspection is not a guarantee against the possibility that repairs may be needed to the home. You should expect the need for maintenance, and repairs, because no inspection can totally eliminate all risks, and all homes need regular maintenance to keep them in good condition.

Your inspection should be done by a licensed home inspector who also has engineering training. State regulations actually do not require home inspectors to be engineers, and only a few of the hundreds of inspectors in NJ are engineers.

When it comes time to sell or appraise your home, you're going to need a home inspection to make sure that your home is in good condition. When conducting a preliminary inspection of your home, it could really help you to have solid home inspection tips and a free home inspection checklist. Having those tips can show you what to look for and where to look for it, while the checklist will help to ensure that you don't forget any items or locations. With these tools at hand, you'll find that you can move through your inspections quickly and efficiently.

Most home inspection tips with free home inspection checklist will break your house up into sections so that you can take the inspection a section at a time, making your inspection more efficient. You can start inspecting by room, from the entry to your home all the way out to the backyard. You certainly don't want to forget to inspect the outside of your home. Curb appeal is becoming more and more important to potential homebuyers, especially in Boca Raton Woodfield Country Club, making it crucial that you pay attention to the exterior details of your home. You can work your way from front to back, and left to right, depending on the easiest flow of movement through your house.

Within each room, there are a variety of categories you want to check. You want to check the structural elements of the house, any plumbing, the electrical features, and any appliances or system equipment (such as a water heater or HVAC unit). You also want to be sure to check out-of-the-way areas, such as the garage, attic, basement, roof, and the exterior of your home. This is a lot of material to have to cover in each room, so it's always good to have your home inspection tips with free home inspection checklist handy.

Having an inspection can help you get your house ready to put on the market. You'll be able to see what you need to fix so that you don't have to pay an appraiser to come out and provide a list of items to repair and then pay him or her to come out and give you a thumbs-up after you're done with the work. It's far more efficient to find these issues on your own. And with some good home inspection tips and a free home inspection checklist, you'll save a lot of time and money on getting your home in the best possible condition.

When a Seller gets a pre-listing home inspection OR a Home owner requires a periodic home inspection, they need to get their homes prepped for the home inspector so that the inspection is conducted in an optimal fashion.

The following recommendations will help the seller/owner prepare for the home inspection in advance:

1. Remove clutter so that the home inspector has visual access to as many areas as possible.

2. Be on time to the inspection so that you can fully participate in all aspects of the investigation.

3. Have the home exterior ready for inspection as the inspector may start examining the outer area of the home if you are not ready. This includes leaving fences unlocked and dogs tied up.

4. The home inspector should be informed of the occupants of the home, especially any children or elderly people.

5. To the extent possible, pets should be removed from the property to allow full access to all areas that are to be inspected.

6. Closets need to be cleared if they provide access to the attic.

7. Keep all utilities connected - The home inspector will have to check the stove, test the furnace and test the air conditioner. It is good to leave the utilities on, so that the inspector can assess their functionality.

8. Provide a work area around Furnace and Water Heaters for the inspector.

9. Many home inspectors may not check the pilot lights if they are not lit. It is a good idea to keep them on before the inspection process starts.

10. Ensure easy access to the garage and try to minimize overcrowding in this area.

11. The garage and electrical boxes should be kept open or have keys attached for ease of use.

12. Give ample time for the home inspector to conduct the inspection. Between 2-4 hours is typical.

13. If you are aware of potential concerns, raise them immediately when the inspector arrives.

During the inspection, note any questions that may arise during the walk-through. Every home inspection will uncover a few flaws in your property. Discuss the problem areas, understand the urgency, and gain an estimate of the repair costs. You can then estimate the repair costs and handle each issue accordingly. It helps in the long run as repair costs spent annually drastically reduces with regular inspection.

A good preparation for the home inspection is beneficial to all involved. After all, a comprehensive report is facilitated by your active preparation...

Home inspection really should be welcomed and not feared. Just because the law requires inspection does not mean it should be dreaded. You can have an inspection for several reasons. There are various kinds of home inspections: Buyers home inspection, where inspection is performed before the ratification of contract; Sellers home inspection that protects the seller's liability as well as probable problems that might clog up the contract process; and the New home inspection that speaks for itself. During this time many other kinds of inspection can take place in a new home - from the dry wall inspection to the footing inspection.

Inspection occurs from the roof of the house to the basement. Most inspections are done visually on accessible areas - inspectors report only what they see. Inspection includes six major systems - the roof, the plumbing, interior, exterior, electrical, heating, air conditioning and appliances - and nearly 400 components. The inspection takes between two and three hours to complete.

Inspectors will make a report on their present condition, any nonfunctional item or health and safety concern and typically photographed that is digitally attached to the report together with a brief summary explaining the condition of that component.

How much are you expected to pay for a home inspection? It depends on the size of the home and the scope of the job being carried out. Expect to pay about the half of a mortgage payment for an inspection. So if your mortgage payment costs $1,000, expect to pay half of that amount. The bigger the house, the larger the mortgage. Therefore, expect a higher inspection fee.

Visual inspection is not technically an exhaustive examination. When inspectors find something of concern such as health issues during inspection, the owner will be informed of this and be walked through it.

Inspectors are expected to answer any questions from the homeowner as well as questions. They should be able to finish the report by the end of business the same day the inspection was held. Before the inspector begins his inspection, ask how he will conduct the inspection. If he cannot articulate what the job will be, there is a chance that he may not be able to accomplish it. Also, ask how many inspections or his experience is. The longer his experience the better. And lastly, ask him of any complaints he has gotten during his career and how well did he handle that. If he can demonstrate all these inquiries that show how well he can do the inspection for you.

However, home inspectors are not expected to check particular inspection like what termite inspectors would do. They will inform you of things buyers or sellers or homeowners need to be aware of and not more. If they find anything of concern, they will recommend or refer that to a specific inspector.

Remember, a seller can have the house inspected, but the buyer can bring his own inspector, too. So it is recommended to have the seller conduct the first inspection before the buyer does it for him.

As a result of numerous reports of counterfeit real estate transactions, a large number of prospective home buyers have lost their trust in buying properties. Due to the small amount of buyers, a large number of home sellers have been forced to agree with offers that are below their anticipated profits. In order to resolve this issue that is unfavorable to both home sellers and buyers, engaging in a home inspection is perceived as a solution to bring back the positive image of buying and selling properties.

Requesting for a home inspection may at times make home buyers feel embarrassed because they fear that this would make the home sellers feel uncomfortable. Most of buyers think that by requesting an inspection they are insinuating that the seller did not take good care of the property. Remember that first of all, this process is a common prerequisite for you to be aware of the current status of the property. Engaging in this should not be seen as a move that questions the home owners' capacity to take care of the property. This is also a helpful way for you to be informed of the possible expenses that you will have in the future. The report given after the conducted inspection will most probably contain the specific repairs that you need to do with the property.

Conducting a home inspection is not only beneficial for the home buyer, but for the home seller as well. Having an inspection report at hand will serve as insurance for the home buyer that the property you are selling is in an outstanding condition. And this may then lead to instantly getting an attractive deal. This procedure will also be an effective advertising strategy for you to be able to sell your home immediately. Having an inspection report will also save you the time and effort of having to deal with very fastidious buyers who go through even the smallest details of your house. As a home seller, you should also keep in mind that before you undergo a home inspection, you should set your expense limitations. Discuss beforehand with the prospective buyer as to what costs you are willing to shoulder. You may also negotiate that both of you get equal share of the expenses.

It is crucial for both the home buyer and owner to have the inspection conducted by a professional. Take note that you must ask for certifications and portfolio of his past inspection jobs. This way you will be able to have a concrete idea of the quality of his work. Another important thing is that sometimes two or three inspections have to be implemented on the property. Separate evaluations are required in some cases. For example, there took place elaborate wiring, installations or construction done in different parts of the property. You must be present during the actual inspection because your assessment of the property can actually differ from his. Lastly, ensure that these areas are properly checked - irregular elevation on floors and roofs, capacity level of the sewage and drainage system, source and level of sanitation of the water supply, pipes, connections, and electrical boxes of the wiring and plumbing structures and sturdiness of materials used for the insulation, walls, and ceiling.

The result of a properly conducted home inspection serves as an assurance for home buyers that they are purchasing valuable properties. Home sellers can have heightened confidence that their properties will be sold at a good price. And as a last reminder for both the buyer and seller, although the real estate market may not always be favorable, do not cheat during the inspection just so you can get hold of your desired deal outcome. Things may backfire unexpectedly, thus, both parties in the end will not be able to enjoy a full blown profitable transaction.