Home Inspections

Buying a home can be quite exciting. It doesn't matter if you are a first time home buyer or not. Buying a home is always exhilarating. You get to choose new paint colours. You get to shop for floor coverings and hire someone to install new cabinets, doors and windows. In all the excitement, there is one thing that you can't afford to forget. You need to remember to get a home inspection. It's always best to have a professional inspector go through the home with a fine tooth comb and make sure that you're investing your money well.

Why do you really need a home inspection? Of course, there is the obvious reason. A home or property inspection will help you determine the structural strength of a home. Through the inspection report, you will know whether to buy the property or not. So, are there any equally great reasons why you really need to get a property inspected before you purchase it?

Newly-Built Homes are Not without Structural Issues

Contrary to what you may think, newly-built homes may have all sorts of structural issues or problems. This is not surprising considering how homes are built. Building a home requires the service of different subcontractor. There are different people working on different areas. Every now and then, they would consult with one another, but often something would slip by them or would go unnoticed. This results to problems or issues with the newly-constructed home.

With many things going on at once, it can be difficult for the builder to be on top of things and monitor all aspects of the construction process. Often, the problems are small but are overlooked. Some of these problems include a broken roof panel, carbon monoxide leaking through the HVAC unit, a small roof drip, water leaking into the basement, small ventilation space, organic growth on wood and damaged door or window framing. The only to make sure that nothing slips by you is to get a home inspection - a thorough one. With the best property inspector, there is no reason why you will miss all these possible problems.

Government Inspections are Different from Home Inspections

Just because you already had a home inspection conducted by the local government agency, this does not mean that you've had a complete building inspection. The job of the government inspector is to make sure that the building has complied with all applicable regulations and building codes. Although the government inspector may do his best, there are factors beyond his control. Problems may arise after he leaves your house. There may be problems that may not necessarily be violations of the building code, but are problems nonetheless. Inspectors do not bother with the quality of workmanship as long as the work complies with the building codes. A property inspector will do all the work that a government inspector won't.

Even if you are planning to live in your new home for the rest of your life, something may happen that could force you to sell your house in the future. Problems that date back to the construction of the property may be unearthed or discovered. At this point, it will be too late to get the original builder involved. You will have to deal with this problem yourself. So, it is better to fix the problem now than in the future.

People often think of home inspections as a service that is to be used immediately before someone buys a home. After the home is purchased then the home inspection and home inspector is seen as no longer needed. This is a mistaken thought. Home inspections can serve every single home owner at least every few years.

A good analogy to a home is a car. You expect a car to receive wear and tear and to need regular maintenance. Car owners are expected to inspect the oil level and to change the oil on a regular basis. Car owners are expected to check the air filter and change it when needed. Owners also check the car tires to make sure they are properly inflated so as to get better gas mileage and to save money. The home should get the same treatment. However like cars some owners take better care of them then others do.

If you are not completely familiar with all areas of a home and physically capable of climbing ladders and crawling though attic and crawl spaces then perhaps you should consider hiring a home inspector. You can locate a home inspector through several means. Some of them being internet search, real estate agent referral, referral from a friend or coworker, or perhaps you still have the contact information of the inspector that inspected your home as you were buying it.

When you are looking at hiring a person to do a maintenance inspection of your home you do not need to have the person inspect your home as fully as it would be done if you were about to buy the home. It is perfectly acceptable to ask the inspector to take a look at only your roof, attic and crawl space. These are the areas that are often the most difficult to gain access to. These same areas can be a bit dirty and risky to inspect.

Inspecting these few areas will not take a long time and will likely take less than an hour for the inspector to do. By looking at these areas the report will provide valuable information to you. Small issues can be discovered and the taken care of before the issue becomes a large costly problem to deal with. Small roof leaks are a good example. When I do inspections I often find energy saving concerns and provide the tips to improve them and save the homeowner money in the long run.

Another benefit of having a home inspector do the inspections is that the home inspector typically does not provide any repair services. This helps ensure that the report you are getting is honest and not motivated by a desire to earn money by doing repair work. So if you want to maintain the value of you home then hire a home inspector to inspect areas of your home at least once each year or two.

A professional Home Inspection can't be completed in a few minutes...it takes time to go through a home and make assessment of the function, configuration, and condition of all of the various materials, components, systems that comprise the residential dwelling.

So how long does it take? Here are a few factors that directly relate to the time it will take for a Home Inspection to be performed:

1. The size of the home - Obviously, larger homes will take longer to inspect. There is, simply, more real estate to cover and more systems that need to be evaluated. A small home in excellent condition can be inspected much more quickly than a very large mansion in an equally as good condition.


2. The age of the home - This factor is very important. Older homes take longer to inspect because there are more potential issues that might be present...and there has been more time during which problems could develop or for the effects of deferred maintenance to become apparent. While older homes are usually somewhat more difficult to inspect, they are often very interesting to inspect. Older homes take longer to inspect than newer homes.


3. The previous use of the home - A home that has been used as a rental property often has more defects because of a general neglect of the property that is often apparent. While this is not always so, it's quite common for rental properties to be in less than pristine condition. The same rationale is able to be aptly applied to many homes that have entered foreclosure.


4. The experience level of the Home Inspector - An experienced Home Inspector can perform a Home Inspection faster than one that may not have a great deal of experience...this just stands to reason, right? Generally, though, the time it takes to accomplish an inspection is not directly related to the quality of the inspection.

On average, the inspection of a 2500 to 3000 square foot home, that's less than 25 years of age will typically take an experienced inspector somewhere around 2.5 to 3 hours to inspect. This time, though, often does not include the time it will take to generate the resulting inspection report. That 2.5 to 3 hour number can be used as a baseline to which some of the other noted considerations can be applied to arrive at close estimate.

If you're a first time home buyer, you're in for a few surprises when you pick out that first home. You'll learn quickly that there are several hidden costs that have a way of jumping out at you like land transfer taxes and such, but one of the costs that you might not have heard of at first will be a pleasure to pay once you understand why the service is necessary. Home inspections are one of the costs that give the new buyer a measure of peace in that they'll be able to find out if there is anything terrible wrong with their purchase before they finalize the deal.

If you're buying in the New York area, a home inspection in Queens might be in order and to that end you'll want to know just why these inspections are important. An overview of the things that a home inspector can find should be helpful in convincing anyone thinking of buying, that a home inspection is necessary and critical.

One of the places that a qualified home inspector will look is outside the home at the grade of the land specifically. A home inspection in Queens will quite often begin out in front of the home in question with the inspector looking for pooling water. This is often an important indicator that the grade of the land is improper and water that sits can often be indicative of more serious problems with moisture in the basement and even cracks in the footings or walls. Ideally, all the earth should slope away from the house so that runoff moves away from the foundation.

A good home inspector will also look for swales in the makeup of the property. Swales are generally depressions in the earth that allow for water to move away from the home and the placement of these is critical. But the home inspector also sees things that raise red flags inside the home.

For instance, he or she will be able to tell you if critical appliances like the furnace is in good working order and they have a trained eye to spot any moisture problems on any of the floors. In the basement, a qualified inspector can spot the different kinds of footing cracks that can either mean the house has shifted or moisture has cracked the walls. And a home inspection in Queens doesn't end there either. Inspectors are trained to look at a variety of things-each one making up a component of the whole. They are trained to spot problems in various areas that range from the plumbing to the entire electrical system.

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Home inspection is generally about the overall checkup of the house by a certified home inspector. An assessment of the overall structure of a property is conducted. The major systems of the house is inspected. The cost of home inspection is one of the things being asked by home buyers and sellers when looking for the right inspector. The inspection is now necessary in order to come up with the idea about the property investment. In this days, wise people know the value of home inspection.

The cost of home inspection varies on the scope of inspection. Home buyers and sellers must be aware of the factors that affect the prices of the inspection. It is the right of every buyer to ask what is the scope covered. Every inspector has its own checklist. The different areas covered by the inspections are itemized on the said checklist. This checklist helps the inspector in his or her inspection. Home inspectors check the structure of the house, the visual inspection of the roofs, chimneys and rain gutters. Typically, what is being inspected are- the foundation of the house, possible termite damage, the electrical wiring, heating and air conditioning system and plumbing system. Water system is also checked for damages including the walls if with leaks and molds.

Apart from asking the cost of home inspection, the client who could be a home buyer or seller may ask about the qualification of the home inspector. Example of these are the school and the certificate where the inspector has attained them, the classes or trainings taken. The home buyer may also ask if the home inspector has taken an exam with National Home Inspector Examination, where the competence of the candidates are measured. Home inspectors who are members of any professional bodies like National Association of Home Inspectors and American Society of home Inspectors are known to be highly-skilled. There are series of trainings needed in order to be a member of these organizations.

Prices also vary depending on how skilled the home inspector is. An experienced home inspector knows how to spot problems in a property. He or she provides knowledge to the home buyers or sellers about major problems needed to fix and suggests solutions when necessary. The estimation of the cost of damage and repairs can also be provided accurately by well-experienced inspector of the property. The reports provided to the clients are the final output of the inspection. Report is an assurance that the house was inspected, the damages or the flaw of the property is major or minor and whether the property is a sound residential investment.

In considering a franchise, there are credible franchise companies where an individual may partner to. One must know the total cost of home inspection business. Based on the experiences of some individuals, anyone may tell that this business is high in demand. Home inspection is a promising career. The economic downturn could have been a threat to the home inspection industry but in reality, the demand still soars because of the continuous changes in the needs the people when it comes into housing.

Home inspections inform the buyer and the seller about the condition of the home. Many San Fernando Valley sellers pay for a home inspection at the time they put their Sherman Oaks, Encino, Van Nuys or North Hollywood real estate on the market so that they can address any potential issues or problems that potential buyers may be concerned about.

It is a good opportunity for the seller to fix or repair any statutory items that they need to comply with such as strapping their water heater to earthquake code, retrofitting toilets and showers and installing smoke alarms per state codes. If there are other items that the seller or their Realtor think may affect the price of the home or the length of time it may take to sell the home, then the seller may want to make some of those repairs if they are justified and will help get the home sold for maximum dollar and in a short period of time. Or the alternative is to offer the buyer seller concessions.

Buyers should conduct a home inspection during their contract contingency period so they are aware of the condition of the home and can make an intelligent decision as to whether they want to purchase the San Fernando Valley home, condo or townhome. This will avoid any surprises after closing as well.

As Is Condition

Although most San Fernando Valley real estate in sold in an "as is" condition, meaning the seller is not required to make any warranties or repairs, except for statutory items, the buyer still should negotiate an inspection contingency in the purchase contract which gives them the opportunity to conduct an inspection. Bank foreclosures and short sales are always sold in an "as is" condition as well.

The purpose of the home inspection is to determine any problems with the home during the inspection contingency period and to give the buyer the opportunity to go forward with the sale, ask the seller for concessions or repairs or cancel the contract if the inspection reveals major repairs or structural damage to the home.

What is Covered in a Home Inspection?

Generally, the buyer pays for a licensed home inspector to conduct a physical inspection of the home's interior and exterior. The inspection includes the inspection of the general systems of the home such as plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning and the roof condition and condition of the appliances. A home inspection can run anywhere from around $250.00 - $500.00 and up depending on the size of the home and the type of home, condo, townhome, etc.

The home inspector does not conduct environmental inspections for mold, lead paint, asbestos, radon, etc. If it is determined that these conditions exist in the home, the inspector will recommend further inspections be done by the appropriate inspectors. Some home inspectors will provide these services at an additional cost. It is then up to the buyer to either hire the appropriate professionals to conduct these further inspections, ask the seller for concessions or a price reduction, or cancel the contract.

When You May Not Need a Home Inspection

If you are planning on tearing down the home and rehabbing it, then you probably don't want to spend the money on a home inspection. You may want to obtain a geology report or soils report and a survey to determine the property boundaries. If you are purchasing a condo or townhouse, it is not necessary to obtain a survey or geology report. You will want to review the natural hazards report to determine if you are in a flood, fire or earthquake seismic hazards zone though.

In a seller's market, it was common for buyers to waive inspection contingencies especially in a multiple offer situation. It is generally not recommended that the buyer waive the inspection though. However, it is a personal decision to be made by the buyer.

Home inspections are an inexpensive way to determine the condition of the home. For buyers, it is important that they conduct a home inspection to avoid a costly mistake by purchasing a property that needs major repairs, has structural damage or is affected by environmental hazards. Every buyer's motivation for purchasing is different. Some buyers are willing to purchase properties that are considered major fixers for the right price. Others want move in condition properties and do not have a budget for making major repairs.

An inspection will reveal material problems about the house that the seller or their San Fernando Valley Realtor may not know about, and therefore did not disclose on the transfer disclosure statement. As a buyer, you don't want to solely rely on the seller's or the Realtors' transfer disclosure statements. It is your responsibility to complete your own investigations about the property you are potentially purchasing so you know what you are getting yourself into.

You can have your home inspected at any time, but the most common reason for an inspection is when a buyer has made an offer on the house and hasn't yet closed. These inspections help reveal problems to address prior to closing, as well as issues that could scuttle the house sale. Sometimes home sellers hire an inspector to help address problems before it goes up for sale. When remodeling your home before putting it on the market, it is important to keep home inspections in mind.

What to Expect from a Home Inspection: A home inspection won't uncover every problem in a house, but a good inspection should reveal any material defects, something that would lower the home's value and/or represent a significant safety hazard to the inhabitants.

A thorough home inspection covers the following areas:

• Foundation,
• Soundness of the house's structure,
• Whole house plumbing,
• Electrical system,
• Heating and cooling system,
• Roof and gutters,
• Basement, attic, and crawl space,
• Insulation,
• Walls, floors, and ceilings,
• Porch or deck,
• Bathroom and kitchen plumbing,
• Water heater,
• Any large appliances,
• At least some of the lights and sockets, and
• At least some of the windows and doors.

Keep these things in mind while remodeling your home to prevent any extra spending you could encounter after the inspection. For instance, after any work or renovations, check things such as plumbing or electricity for damage that the contractor may have caused. You should also check the work that was just completed to ensure you got the results you envisioned. Work with a reputable contractor that guarantees his or her work for added protection.

If there are parts of your house that you know would not pass inspection, consider remodeling them first. That way the most important issues get fixed.

Things to Keep In Mind When It Comes to Your Inspector

Choose a Good Inspector: You want an accredited inspector with a good reputation. An inept home inspector can leave you with a bombshell of major house improvements, while a good one can save you thousands of dollars.

Accompany the Inspector: The inspection isn't just to identify major flaws in the house. It is a valuable source of information for you about how the house works and how to maintain it.

Get a Written Report: Your inspector should give you a written report that identifies every part of the house that was inspected and lists any recommended repairs.

Several decades ago, home inspection was not a common practice when it came to buying or selling a house. With the growth of real estate, the demand for home inspection services also increased and has become a serious career for some individual. Today, there are several numbers of companies that offer home inspection services just like the WIN Home Inspection. The success of many companies in this industry now depends on the caliber of highly-skilled home inspectors they produce. Many people seek for training from different institute in order to be certified and further pursue in this kind of profession. Getting a license to be an inspector signifies that a home inspector is in for marketability and competitiveness.

Before closing any real estate contract, each of the party needs to conduct their own due diligence. Part of this due diligence work is getting a report about the assessment of the subjected property like a house. The following are helpful tips as to what a buyer should check when looking for a home inspector.

Insurance- It is important to ask if the inspector of the property is insured. It is better to ask for the proof of it. There are states that require insurance but some do not.

License- This is important and serves as a proof that a person is a qualified home inspection individual. Some states require a home inspection licensing in order to conduct the service and some do not. Should the state require one, it is a good practice to get the full license number of the inspector. In this way, the buyer or the seller could easily identify if the inspector is a fully-licensed, an intern or an apprentice.

Experience- In terms of experience, the number of houses inspected is important than the number of years of experience. A home inspector may have 10 years of experience but have actually inspected only 100 houses. A home inspector that is truly experienced has a series of rigid inspection done in many houses. An ideal really is an inspection of 200 or more a year.

Association membership- Home inspectors in some companies like WIN's commit their time and money to some reputable society like ASHI. American Society of Home Inspectors is a home of high caliber inspector professionals. This simply means that an inspector that is a member holds value on the advocacy of the organization. Therefore, he or she upholds work ethics at all times.

Report Delivery- The output of the task is the written report. It is important to know how long an inspector can provide the report. Some home inspectors deliver a quality assessment within 24 hours or a week through email, regular mail or delivered personally.

It is obvious that getting the right and good home inspector is important. Nevertheless, many individuals do not conduct their own research before hiring. Price and availability are not important. Many times, low-priced, readily available inspectors would mean poor quality. In order to win home inspection deals and get a successful report outcome, a careful research is a good way to start looking for a reliable and credible home inspector. The above items are important because these mean provision of quality of work.

Home inspection is a visual examination of the condition of the house which is usually objective, limited and non-invasive. The inspection also includes the examination of the physical structure and system of the house which is from the roof to the foundation of the house.

Home inspection is not just done by anybody in the neighborhood. It has to be conducted by home inspectors who have knowledge about the criteria in inspecting the house. So, what the inspectors do is to prepare a written report using home inspection software. The report would cover things about the condition of the heating and the conditioning system of the house, the electrical systems as well as the plumbing system. From the outside, the inspector also makes a report about the physical structure of the roof, the rooms, the attic and the foundation of the house. From this, we can see that only experts who have enough knowledge of the technicalities of the house can only do it.

For most people, buying a house is not something that they can decide on just off the rack. It takes a lot of time and money for them to buy their own house and it could be one of the biggest investments they could make in their entire lives. Thus, it is just right that a home inspection is conducted before buying it to free ourselves from the unexpected surprises and the unpleasant difficulties of the house. After the home inspection is conducted, that would be the best time to decide whether to buy the house or not.

However, what are the things that we have to take note when requesting for a home inspector? Home owners or home buyers have to make a checklist of the things that the home inspector has to take note. The important things that have to be in the report are the plumbing system, the structural elements, and the exterior evaluation of the house, the roofing and the attic. Apart from that, the home inspector has to take note of the condition of the electrical system too. These things have to be all included in the report. Home buyers have to remember that plumbing system and the electrical system are the basics that they have to pay attention as it spells out the safety of the people living in the house.

Because of the home buyers are usually clueless about the technicalities of a house, looking for a good home inspector is imperative. Looking for home inspection companies in the internet would be of great help and also reading reviews about them is necessary. The home inspection report wouldn't anyway be that useful when the home inspector itself is not well-versed with what he is doing. Thus, finding a competent and reliable company on the internet or from your friends would ensure a good investment when buying a house.

Home Inspection Certification can be obtained through a recognized Home Inspection training courses and online certificate programs that offer various procedures and processes. Individuals enrolled on this training will learn how to inspect houses, provide assessment to appraisers, buyers and sellers. Just like getting a certification in phlebotomy or Cisco Certified Network Associate or known as CCNA, being a licensed or certified home inspector is essential in real estate industry.

As a buyer, every property bought, land,building or houses, is considered as an asset to the buyer. Asset such as a new home must be a place where people will be safe and secure. Part of doing a due diligence in buying is hiring a qualified home inspector. A buyer does not possess the ability to check what is normal and not in any house. Generally speaking, the main objective of a home inspection is to come up with a list of imperfections which can be used to lower the selling price of the property. An experienced inspector of home will professionally do the inspection procedures. Every visual examination and all changes made on the property will be documented. Sometimes, houses sold by developer that are not brand new have flaws. It is a fact that a buyer may not sign a contract if a home has some hidden defects. Therefore, the report generated through the process of home inspection is one major factor that can affect the decision of the buyer.

For a seller, having a house for sale inspected is a plus. Seller may opt to choose a certified home inspector who knows the details of every house. The main objective here is to be able to identify the damages that needed to be fixed before a buyer comes in. If the property has no damage, the appraise value may increase. With this, seller can easily close a deal in a short period of time because there will be no additional work on the seller side and the buyer can immediately decide to close the deal. Bad houses can destroy a deal but not real estate deals. Therefore, a good inspector is expected to deliver facts and a seller to get things fixed.

Home inspection is being done in every detail manner. The foundation of the house is being checked. He or she provides an assessment in the report whether the house has a strong foundation. The attic and roofing are being examined as well as the framework systems. A well-experienced inspector knows how to study the external and internal structures like the doors, windows and walls. The electrical systems and ventilations will never be skipped from the scrutinizing eyes of a home inspector certified. Home inspection certification is important for an individual in order to pursue a career as a home inspector. The importance of hiring a qualified home inspector is obvious for both seller and buyer. Now that real estate industry is faltering, professional house inspector is in high demand. The responsibility is huge on their side in order to provide a quality report to potential buyer and seller.

If I had a nickel for every time; OK I not going to start my article off with that old cliché, although it's very true. Some of the major issues I run across doing my Home Inspections are from issues, if identified earlier, could have been corrected with much less headache and your hard earned money. The average homeowner will never go into the places in their home to actually identify these issues on a regular basis. Small issues left unidentified and uncorrected over a long term can cause serious issues. On average most home maintenance issues can be corrected for fewer than two hundred dollars if caught in time.

There are several examples of this kind, I will include just a few.

Last week I inspected a very nice newer home in North Texas that from the outside appeared to be very well maintained and in great shape. However, when I entered the attic and inspected the two natural gas fired hot water heaters I discovered that sections of the flue pipes, on both units, had been removed to allow the installation of AC duct work. This was allowing the poisonous fumes from the heaters to be pumped into the attic. This condition could allow the fumes to make their way down into the house and poison the homeowners with no sign at all. Once reported both units where repaired and the HVAC contractor was called to witness the type of work that was completed.

Inspecting crawl spaces, which is never my favorite thing to do; I find a lot of them to be wet/damp and poorly ventilated. These conditions can cause major damage to all the wood sub-structure in the crawl space. Once these conditions are identified steps can be made to make the necessary corrections, with little or no impact to the homeowner.

The Home Inspectors job is not to find every single little item that is wrong with a house. We can not see through walls, under floors or anything else that requires supernatural powers. Our job is to alert the homeowner of major issues with the house that are deficient and the potential of becoming major issues in the future.

These are just the tip of the ice berg on the issues that are uncovered during a normal home inspection. If you have not had your home inspected in the past several years maybe you should. Or you can just sit back and home that your house will not develop these or any other major issues.

Remember, small problems always grow up faster that you think and become major problems.
What are you going to do?

I am a home inspector who does work in the Springfield Ohio area. I have been inspecting for several years and have a rather large number of positive comments from past clients and agents. When a home inspection is done it is important that the report be read.

Everyone gets busy these days, or at least everyone believes they are busy. People want fast information with no waiting. This is likely in part a result of the way the younger generation are being raised. Everyone for many years was too careful not to damage a child's self esteem. This resulted in a generation of wusses who have a hard time in dealing with the normal difficulties in life when they occur. I was reminded of this the other day when I got a call regarding a home inspection I did several months ago.

I had performed a home inspection in Springfield Ohio for a young lady, early 20's at the most. It is did not get a phone call from her it was from her mother wanting to know what all I had inspected. After calling her back she tells me that her daughter had to spend money on the furnace to get it to work and to get it cleaned. Mom did not believe that such a young person should have to spend money on a home they just moved into. I told her to have her daughter call me that evening at 8pm after I had time to located and then read the report.

I find the report and look at the section regarding the heating and cooling. One issue I described was that the blower motor did not respond when the control on the thermostat was operated. She apparently never read the report or told her mom about things being being in the best of condition. I also had this in the report: The last service date of this system appears to be more than two years ago, or the inspector was unable to determine the last service date. The client(s) should ask the property owner(s) when it was last serviced. If unable to determine the last service date, or if this system was serviced more than two years ago, a qualified heating and cooling contractor should inspect, clean, and service this system, and make repairs if necessary. This servicing should be performed every few years in the future, or as per the contractor's recommendations.

It is important that an inspection report be read fully. If after reading the report a person has questions be sure to ask as soon as possible while the home in fresh in the home inspectors memory.

The young buyer still have not called me. Perhaps she is reading the report of this Springfield Ohio Home Inspection

What? Two home inspections on the same property? Yes. If you're selling a home, you'll want one done, and the prospective buyer will want one done, too. If you do a pre-sale home inspection on the home you're selling, you'll save yourself and your prospective buyer a lot of hassles down the road.

Put yourself in the buyers shoes for a minute. These days a buyer can't be too careful, especially with so many foreclosed homes in uncertain condition on the market. Her real estate sales offer may depend on an acceptable home inspection. This inspection can make everybody involved a little nervous. After all, since a home is such a major investment, she'll want to be sure things are all right before she buys and makes it her home.

Is that home structurally sound? Are all the major and minor components functioning at the time of the inspection? Are those components going to have a reasonable life expectancy comparable to the price you, the seller, are asking.

So What happens when the home inspector she brings in finds major problems? What if there's a failing roof or a foundation that shows signs of moisture penetration? You can bet she'll be quite concerned, especially if she's a first time home buyer. She may want further evaluations or may back out of the deal altogether.

Most home buyers will have a home inspected, and the inspector will find problems, whether they're major or minor, you can count on it. The best way to avoid or minimize such problems is to have a pre-sale inspection done when you're ready to sell your home.

There are several important benefits of having a pre-sale inspection done. First, it will bring you peace of mind because you'll find problems before a prospective buyer's inspection points them out. Then you can take time to find reasonable and affordable fixes.

Second, the pre-sale inspection gives you a peak into what you can anticipate when dealing with the buyer. She may try to use the home's defects as negotiating leverage to lower the sales price. She may want major work done, which will slow the sales process or kill the deal entirely. Since a pre-sale inspection will mention any deficiencies and provide a cost analysis, you'll be better informed ahead of time.

But there's another side to this coin. The pre-sale inspection will also highlight the assets of your home. This gives you sound reasoning for your asking price and will leave little room for the buyer to negotiate a reduced price when she sees the home inspector's report.

A pre-sale inspection can help avoid a disclosure lawsuit. If the inspection brings to light something you weren't aware of, that will likely be disclosed on the disclosure form. You don't want something unexpected to pop up after your buyer has closed on the deal. She could say you knew about the defect and file suit for damages. This can cost thousands of dollars, cause mortgage default, or years of court battles and headaches. You want to demonstrate to your buyer that you're serious about making the sale and, most importantly, that you're honest.

Incidentally, if you're attempting to buy a home yourself, while trying to sell your current home, don't take home inspection shortcuts. If you're using the same company to do a pre-sale inspection on the home you're selling and a prospective buyer's inspection on the home you're contemplating, ask the company for a reduce price on one of the inspections.

Most of the home buyers while buying a home usually have cost as their number one factor and considering that they will usually give a thought to doing a home inspection themselves. For that the most obvious resources they turn to the Internet looking for checklist for doing home inspection or trying to find home inspection report software that will do the trick.

Buyers beware there is no shortcut to doing a proper home inspection. You can get a free checklist on-line, which will detail all the relevant things that need to be checked, is usually very comprehensive. But however comprehensive the checklist may be there is nothing which can beat an expert eye.

For example a checklist can say check the roofing and you as a untrained eye can look at the roof to say everything looks fine but a trained eye can look at the roof coating to say something was done recently to conceal a few defects. That is where the years of doing inspections and knowing the tricks of the trade comes in to play. As some home owners can employ a lot of these concealment efforts before selling the house,an expert home inspector can catch them very easily. A complete novice and amateur do it yourself home inspector can never know what he has missed out on. It can come to haunt you in terms of thousands of dollars of cost later or you may be even buying a structurally incorrect building for yourself.

Even if you buy home inspection software it may help you create a good report, but will never fill in for the expertise of a trained experienced home inspector. That software in all actuality can really be of immense help to a home inspector to put forward a detailed comprehensive report.

Make sure to spend a few hundred dollars now rather than paying thousands of dollars later for repairs and ruing your decision. It will definitely hit your budget now, but act now to save yourself from agony later.

There are many buyers who are not sure whether to do a home inspection or not. Sometimes a buyer also expects a lot more out of the inspection than a home inspector can provide as per regulations and in the following sections we will look at some such common questions you will also face while buying a house and using inspection services.

Why is it necessary to have a home inspection?

There are several functional systems in a house and it is probable that some of them might not be working, so an inspection will tell you the condition of the house before you purchase it.

How much time does such an inspection take?

The answer to this question will largely depend upon the condition as well as size of house. Normally, a 2,500 sq.ft. home can be inspected in around three hours and if the reports will be created in your home itself then it will consume another thirty to forty minutes.

Is it necessary to have an inspection for every house?

Although according to laws it is not necessary but for your own interest you should get home inspection done. It will save you from costly repair work on the house after buying and moving into it.

What are the things that are not part of home inspection?

Many believe that such an inspection covers detailed analysis of all parts of the house but it is not actually so. There are pre-defined guidelines (ASHI & INACHI) about what is covered in an examination and home inspectors have to follow them.

Is radon test necessary?

In some part of the country it is certainly necessary to get the radon test done. Radon gas generally seeps in from foundation holes as well as cracks and is known as a major cause of lungs cancer. A NEHA or NRSB trained inspector will be able to easily perform the test.

Is an inspection required if it is a new house?

It may be surprising for you but more problems are found in new houses as compared to old ones. Such problems could be due to builder's negligence or incompletion of some of the installation tasks resulting in development of problems in the house.

Let builder inspect or hire a professional inspector?

If a new residence is being built and builder assures you that all things will be inspected properly, there are chances that many of the important things will be missed out. Thus you need to hire an actual inspector to make four to six interim checks to know if everything is being done properly or not.

What kind of report you should expect?

Reports are nowadays computer generated that contain digital pictures and can be 40 page long. These provide detailed information about the existing problem and are easier to comprehend in comparison to earlier handwritten reports.

Conclusion

To conclude we will say that here we have listed some of the common questions which come to mind of every buyer and will certainly help you develop a clear picture about what to expect and not to expect from a home inspection.

Home inspection is a detailed examination of the structure and overall condition of the various systems (heating system, air conditioning, etc) in a house. The professional who carries out this inspection is known as home inspector and this inspection is performed mostly on behalf of buyers, because it makes absolute sense to get the home inspected by a professional, before you invest a huge amount of money into a property. Home inspectors searches for defects (if there's any) in the structure, rooms, plumbing, ventilation system, and prepares a report for the home buyer. For buyers, it is extremely advantageous as it saves them from the cost and annoyance of going through maintenance work. For sellers, a bad home inspection report can spoil a good deal. Being a seller, you cannot refuse an inspection (even if you could, doing that will put buyers on alert, therefore there's no escaping).

Home inspectors have plenty of knowledge and experience to identify any kind of defects, flaws or short comings in a home. Before you start to advertise your properties, you must take a look at your home from a home inspector's viewpoint. You must identify the problems and do something about them once you know the typical ones that a home inspector is more likely to rummage around for. Remember, a home inspector will go in extensive details; their reports to buyers include images highlighting stains, cracks, leakages and everything, because it's their job to point out even the slightest of problems.

Home inspectors will most likely start from the basic structure and building material, moving towards inspecting the central cooling/heating system, electrical system, ventilation and sewerage system. You can take care of all of these aspects by going through some basic repair work and replacing some parts of the system. It may sound like a waste of money as you're about to sell this house, but these repairs and replacements will be helpful in demanding and getting adequate price for your home. A home inspector report typically includes interiors, roof, insulation, built in appliances, and the likes. Therefore, it's a good idea to grab some sample home inspection reports and work accordingly. You may have had one from the time when were purchasing a home. After making the required repairs and replacements, you can go for a home inspection report and then use a positive home inspection report as a marketing tool.

How much do you charge? Isn't this usually the firsts question perspective home buyers ask a home inspector? Actually,asking the inspector about their qualifications and experience should be the first questions.

In home inspection, it's safe to say that one size does not fit all. All homes are different and all home inspectors are different. If your home is an older home, the inspection may take several hours. Many web sites state that a home inspection can run from $175 to $300, but this fee is based on an inspector performing 2 to 3 inspection per day, and while in some instances this is doable and acceptable, you shouldn't use it as a standard since a thorough inspection and report can take up to 5 to 6 hours. A home inspection price is quoted using several different criteria and methods; quotes can be a flat fee, they can be based on square footage of the living area or square feet under the roof.

Still others will base their fee on the price of your home or how much time they spend inspecting the home. Does your home have an detached garage? An inspector may or may not charge for its inspection, but will include the square footage of it in his overall price. A detached garage can also be considered as an outbuilding and the inspector will charge for its inspection. Every home has its own unique optional items; some inspectors will charge for some of them others won't charge for options like pools or septic systems. As you can see, there is as much variation in a home inspection as there is in homes themselves.

Let's talk money and put home inspection fees into perspective. If you're buying a home in the range of $400,000 and the inspection fee is $700.00, that's less than 2% of the cost of the house. When you realize that most realtors charge 3% to 6% to sell a home, you're talking $12,000 to $24,000 for your $400,000 home. Put that way, a home inspection is a real bargain.

If the home inspection doesn't turn up any problems, then you've bought peace of mind; if it does bring to light some serious concerns, you've saved yourself many thousands of dollars down the road. There's really no way you can lose if you have your home inspected by a competent home inspector. You'll learn the condition of the property and what kind of repairs you might be in for. Your inspector can also educate you on recommended ways to keep the house in good shape and keep all of the major systems running smoothly.

A professional home inspector will identify problems, off er solutions, and give you cost estimates for any major repairs/replacements. This kind of knowledge is invaluable to a homeowner and well worth the money.

Buying your home is a very important purchase, perhaps the most important one you will make. So why take a gamble on your home not being in good condition? Home inspections can save you from spending tons of money down the road. For example if you get into your home without having an inspection done, what if the home is in need of a new roof? Or maybe there might even be a problem with the foundation, or even the structure. By getting your home inspected, it would make you aware of these problems before it's too late. Here are a few examples on what a home inspection covers;

- Finds any items that need to be replaced or fixed

- Inspects all the major systems, which include; air conditioning, heater, pluming, and gas ext.

- Inspects the structure and mechanical systems as well

Here are some of the areas broken down into detail that the inspector will look at for you; interior, exterior, electric, structure, plumbing, heating, air conditioner. Let's go through some of these one by one and find out why it is very important that they are looked at;

Exterior: Walking around the exterior of the home, the inspector will be looking for any structural faults of the home, as well as looking for any unusual deflections. When we say structural we are mainly talking about the roof, and foundation. These are considered some of the most important parts. Checking out the roof, the things that the inspector will be look at the roof flashing and shingles, chimneys, sky lights etc. making sure there are no water intrusions. Back down on the outside of the home the inspector will check out all the doors, foundation walls, windows, porches, decks, driveways and sidewalks ext,making sure that everything is in good shape to keep you from any future surprises.

Interior: Now moving onto the inside of the home, the inspector will look at ceilings, walls, floors, doors, and windows to insure again that everything is in good shape. The inspection will also make sure there is no interior water damage. Next the inspector will move onto the attic. Making sure that once again, there is no structural damage. As well as making sure the ventilation and insulation are okay. When looking at ventilation and insulation, it is very important because these things can keep you from having to pay extremely high utility bills, not to mention it will keep you and your loved ones warm. They will also check out the basement to make sure that there is no structural or water damage there as well.

After the inspection is complete the inspector will write up a report with everything that was found and reviewed during the inspection.

Now that we have briefed you on some of the pieces of your home inspection, it is important that you keep all of this in mind when buying a home. Don't just go off of any ones good word; go off of an inspector's word. Make sure that you talk to your realtor about this so they can give you a better idea about the process and answer any questions you may have. It's also important that you don't just go with any inspector but that you make sure you do your homework on that as well.

Home Inspection Service Franchises provides people with their services of home inspections. They visit the houses of their clients and inspect them to find any potential structural challenges. There can be many types of contamination, which can ruin your house. This AmeriSpec Home Inspection Services Franchise Review states many points about this franchise option. It may help you if you are considering a home inspection business.

Background: The AmeriSpec Home Inspection Services was first started in Anaheim, California. The aim of the company was to offer homebuyers with their unique home inspection services. After a few years of successful operations, the company started to franchise their services to other potential people who want to invest their money in the AmeriSpec Home Inspection Services.

The company offered its franchisees with lots of facilities as well as operation convenience for starting their business. The company offered their potential buyers from across the country with services like exterior, interior and structural home inspections.

The company further went on to become a part the ServiceMaster. This gave the company the right to co-branding with many other reputed companies like Merry Maids, Terminix, ChemLawn, Tru-Green and Furniture Medic. The relationship with these companies gave them an option to offer discounts to its customers on its services even from above mentioned companies who had become its partners.

Along with the home inspection services, the company has offered its customers with many other services right from the beginning. The company also provides services like checking homes and properties for the unwanted presence of harmful substances like molds, water contaminants, lead, carbon monoxide and radon. It also provided environmental inspection services to its clients.

Benefits of the Franchise -

If you are thinking of the reason you should choose this franchise, there are some reasons stated below which can help you in doing this-

· No experience required- you do not need to have any sort of prior business experience in this field.

· Marketing and other technology packages- you will be provided with a hand-held computer which you can use during your home inspections, a laptop computer, and an AmeriSpec Home Inspector Software.

· Initial training provided- you will be given extensive training at the their state-of-the-art facility training. This training will cover all aspects growing your home inspection franchise and opening it correctly.

· On-going training services- they hold regional conferences every year in various cities. At these regional conferences, many renowned industry experts are invited to provide insights on varieties of home inspection-related management and technical topics.

Franchise Cost and Start-up Fees:

Total Investment to be paid initially: $26,400-$64,600

Royalty Fee which has to be paid: 7%

Initial Franchise Fee which has to be paid: N/A

Term of Agreement: 5 years

Advertising Fees: N/A

As with any business, it is important you do your due diligence and understand all aspects of the company as well as your market. Successful investigation of all aspects of a potential business will often times drastically increase your odds for business success

A Home Inspection is part of the process when purchasing a home. This inspection is done by an outside professional who can provide an unbiased and impartial visual exam and test the systems of the house to ensure that everything is in working order. With stricter legislation at the state and federal level, the home inspection has become more and more important so a professional opinion is essential.

Typically a well known home inspection company is contacted to conduct this examination. These professionals are knowledgeable about home construction, maintenance and safety and know how the systems are supposed to function or why they don't work. They are usually certified professionals who have passed a written examination and met rigorous standards to be an inspector. These people arre current on the latest technology and materials along with the skills required for conducting these inspections.

They will examine the physical condition of the house and let you know what systems or items need repair or replacement. At the end of the inspection, a detailed report is prepared and presented to the buyer to inform them of any potential issues or problems or non-working items. This written report will give you a lot of information that you might not have otherwise known or considered and will make you aware of everything about your purchase.

Identification of a problem does not mean that it should be fixed or changed it is just making you aware of all the conditions of the home you are planning to purchase. This information will be important to you and may lead you to ask the seller to make repairs if a serious problem is identified.

Some important questions that can be asked of your home inspector are:

- How long have you been in the home inspection business and how many home inspections have you completed? If it's been a short time, you might ask for a more experienced inspector to assist.
- What will areas will the inspection cover? If there are particular areas that you want covered you should ask that they be included as well.
- What type of report will I receive and when will I receive it? The usual timing is within 24 hours or shortly thereafter.
- Will I be able to attend the inspection? You can and you should be there for the inspection as it is valuable to be able to hear what the inspector has to say and to voice any questions or concerns while he is there.
- Do you continue to attend additional training and educational programs that will keep you up to date? Most of these professionals are required to keep apprised of the latest training if they are a part of national or state association of inspectors.

When you have your inspection and then receive your written report, it is important to know which problems that have been identified are potentially the most serious. These are problems that might be considered a reason for not pursuing the purchase of this home:

- Foundation cracks are major concerns however it is important to know the reason for the cracks and whether repairs or replacement are feasible or if too much water may have accumulated outside the foundation or caused the cracks.
- Wiring in an older home especially should be reviewed carefully. If the wiring has been updated that is good, however it is important to know if the current owner has the home up to date in terms of technical needs for a family that will utilize computers and have other technical needs that an older couple might not have had.
- Stains on walls or ceilings may indicate a leaky roof or a leak in an upstairs bathroom. It is important to ask whether there have been problems and to ensure that they have been addressed if there have been.
- Fresh paint could indicate that the owner is covering up for a problem area rather than just freshening up the house for sale especially if the painting is only in an isolated area.
- If renovations have been done to the house, it is important to find out if load bearing walls have been removed or have been kept in place. Drawings of any renovation work should be requested to ensure that there is no potential physical damage even if you don't observe sagging ceilings or floors or cracks.
- Windows or doors should all be checked to ensure that they open and close properly and that they have all been sealed correctly as well.
- The outside siding of the house should not show any stains on the wood or cracks in bricks or stucco or missing mortar. In colder climates, cracks should be sealed to prevent further deterioration.
- Have the inspector check for termites or other pests that might reside in your attic or other areas of the house. Some areas demand a termite inspection as well.
- Sagging floors with slopes are signs of trouble so be sure and get someone to look at this as soon as possible.
- Watch for dry rot or moisture or decay on patio covers or porches or other areas to see if there fungal decay.

These major problems don't need to deter you from buying the house, but unless your seller is willing to pay for the repairs or replacement required, it might not be worth purchasing if you know in advance that you will have major expenditures. However, if you are planning on doing a major renovation after you move in, then you can take care of some of these issues that the seller isn't willing to accommodate.

If your seller will comply with repairs or replacement before closing, it is essential that a reputable repair man or licensed professional is used. As a buyer, it is recommended that you ensure that this occurs by asking to see the licenses and/or permits required to get the job completed.

Olympian Civil Home and Building Inspections (866) 476-2056
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2008 All Rights Reserved

A home purchase can be one of the most joyous yet stressful times of your life. Finding just the right home with the right Realtor is an important part of the exciting process of purchasing your new home. You may think that all of the major decisions are complete once you have identified the right home for you. However, many new home buyers might be surprised to learn just how important it is to also secure a good home inspector. This is one of the most important components of your real estate transaction but is frequently overlooked. It could mean the difference between living with peace of mind or buying a "money pit". Do not underestimate the immense hassle and energy it will take to correct or rectify home defects after the real estate transaction is complete.

There are numerous ways to find the right home inspector. One method is by way of a referral from your Realtor. He or she has been part of hundreds of home inspections and is a great source for finding a qualified inspector. Another way to go about finding a good home inspector is by doing your own research or by referral from friends and family.

According to some real estate professionals, Realtors and home inspectors may have conflicting objectives when it comes to the sale of a house. Because the Realtor's goal is to achieve the sale, some believe that a Realtor's energies are not necessarily focused on home defects. Good home inspectors have a single goal, to get you as much information as possible about the condition of the house so you can make an informed purchase decision.

While some in the real estate community are concerned that certain Realtors may only refer inspectors that will gloss over things in order to "push" the deal through and get more referrals from the Realtor, I have a much different perspective. Let me just say, I've been inspecting homes for over 19 years. I've been involved in over 8,000 inspections and I have to say, I just don't see the conflict. In fact I feel just the opposite.

Almost all of a Realtor's new business comes from referrals, and referrals come from happy clients. If the Realtor's inspector referral results in a substandard home inspection, future problems with the home will no doubt come to light. This will result in angry complaints to the Realtor and possible legal action! Even if the problems point to a poor inspection, the Realtor will assuredly be named in the lawsuit. This actually incentivizes Realtors to refer only the best home inspectors. Likewise, a home inspector is more likely to be incentivized to do a thorough inspection to protect the Realtor who referred him the business.

In some cases, a Realtor may recommend a client to more than one inspection company. It's wise to call them all. Go to their web sites. Look over the inspector's experience, education and background. Call and speak directly to each one. A good home inspector will be able and willing to easily answer all of your question.

Important questions to ask when choosing a home inspector:

How Experienced is the Home Inspector? Let's face it, experience is probably the most important factor in choosing a professional in any industry. If the inspector has been in business for less than five years, chances are he or she has not seen the thousands of conditions that a more seasoned inspector has encountered. Your safe bet is to go with a seasoned home inspector with more than five years of field experience.

Is the Inspector a Member of the American Society of Home Inspectors? This is the largest and oldest inspector membership organization in the United States. All members must abide by a strict code of ethics along with maintaining annual continuing education requirements. They must pass a rigorous test prior to acceptance. If the inspector tells you that he is a member, go to ashi.com and verify his membership. In California, where I do business, information concerning home inspectors can also be found by checking California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA), their website can be found at http://www.creia.org. You can check your individual state associations to find a local home inspector or to find out more information about home inspections in your state.

What Kind of Report does the Inspector Furnish? The best type of report you can have is a comprehensive narrative style with pictures of important conditions. Some home inspectors uses a checklist-type of report. Do not settle for a home inspector who uses merely a checklist report, as it will not provide you with the information necessary to make a sound purchase decision.

Anyone who is buying a house should have a home inspection.

When you are buying a home it is likely you will start to feel the stress and you may be a little confused because of all the requirements and hoops you must go through to buy the home.

It is hard enough to decide exactly where you want to live especially if you have a family. You want to find the best location and what kind of schools are in the area.

Buying a home can be a very stressful time and the last thing that you want to find out after you move into your new home is that there is something wrong with the home and it is going be very costly to you.

So to alleviate some of the stressfulness of buying a new home, hire a home inspector to inspect the home before you buy it.

The home inspector will evaluate the condition of the home and the physical structure and various systems within the house itself. The inspector does not pass or fail the home.

The home inspector will give you a professional, unbiased assessment of the home. A full report with pictures will be given to you when he is finished his evaluation of the home. This report is for you to keep. The inspector will answer and explain any and all questions that you may have about the report.

The answers provided by the inspector should be clear so you can understand them. If you do not understand something ask him to explain it to you.

Buying a home means that you are investing a large amount of money. It may be the most important investment you ever make so you want to make sure you get what you are paying for.

What is really nice about a home inspection is that if there are problems with the home you can use the home inspection report to negotiate price with the seller.

A lot of times the seller does not know what is wrong with the home so they may be willing to do something about the price if there is something wrong with the home.

A good home inspector will encourage you to ask questions. The more questions you ask, the more familiar you will be with the house that you are about to buy.

Before you select an inspector you may want to ask the home inspector what is included in their home inspection.

Most home inspectors typically inspect things like the roof and attic, the electrical system, the heating and air conditioning systems, the foundation walls, all bathrooms, the kitchen, plumbing system, and framing.

There may be other items that a home inspector will look out for such as leaks and moisture where black mold could be growing.

As the home inspector is going through the home you may want to ask about what kind of maintenance should be performed on the house and how often. Your inspector will be glad to answer all your questions.

Remember when you hire a home inspector he is looking after your best interests. He wants to give you peace of mind.

So before you hire a professional home inspector ask them about their experience and training. Also ask them if they guarantee their work. If they do not guarantee their work then hire someone else that will.

It is a very big investment buying a home. When you hire an experienced, professional, certified home inspector it will be worth every penny just to have peace of mind.

So who should have a home inspection? You should.

Most home inspection contracts pertain to residences in the middle of a real estate transaction. Most commonly, the home inspection is a contingency buyers place on their purchase agreement, and sometimes sellers order a pre-listing inspection as a preemptive measure. But conscientious homeowners who sense that the condition of their abode is getting away from them can also benefit from a professional inspector examining their house and helping them to get back on track. They will save in the long term simply because it is less expensive to nip problems in the bud.

A home inspection is not a necessary prelude to getting one's house in shape. The owner probably has at least a vague idea of what needs to be repaired and replaced, upgraded and renovated. Perhaps he has saved a do-it-yourself guide out of the newspaper or found helpful pointers off the Internet. But if he really wants to make sure that he isn't overlooking anything, he should hire a home inspector. This is particularly the case if he can't honestly say whether or not his dwelling has a pest infestation or structural integrity problem. Damage from wood-destroying insects just gets worse and more costly the longer it is allowed to fester.

Let's look at some of the house components and systems that an inspection will investigate. In addition to looking for structural damage to beams and joists from pests, the inspector will examine the condition of the foundation and other structural members. He will also keep an eye out for conditions that are conducive to infestation, such as wet or very damp areas, soil in contact with siding, or vegetation growing too close to the building. Overall roof condition is included in the inspection, as is siding.

The home inspector not only will evaluate the serviceability of the furnace, but will also assess heating efficiency and capacity. He will estimate the volume of combustion air that all house appliances require and check that sufficient supply is available. The inspection also includes a review of sufficient draft air and the condition of chimneys and vents. Similarly, serviceability, capacity, and combustion needs of the water heater are a standard part of the home inspection.

For a comfortable living environment, there must be a balanced interior flow of air, heat, and moisture. Influencing this balance is the presence or absence of insulation, vapor barriers, and adequate ventilation. These elements are an important aspect of the home inspection, especially in the attic and crawl space.

A well-functioning house implies well-functioning plumbing, including proper intake, distribution, draining, and venting. Plumbing is a key focus of the home inspection because defects in this area often lead to more serious problems. Besides looking for leaks, the inspector typically measures water pressure and temperature, tests for adequate venting and fan exhaust, and checks for air gaps, backflow prevention, and other methods of preventing cross connections.

The inspection report is the product that the customer's money really buys. Its usefulness is both immediate and long-term. It contains recommendations for remedying defects that need attention right away, and may indicate others that warrant monitoring. There should be estimates of life expectancy for the roof, furnace, and water heater. There should be recommendations regarding appropriate servicing arrangements to maintain the major appliances and systems. Treating the report as a reference document and acting upon its recommendations, the homeowner keeps his home in good condition and saves major unexpected expenses and worries.

There is little doubt that the home inspection service business is a booming business. According to official figures, 4.9 million home inspections were performed in 2000. This figure has gone up in recent years following the construction boom in the US. You will therefore be never short of business.

Job profile: A home inspector examines a property from the rooftop to the foundation.
Among other thing, the home inspector examines the exterior and interior of the building, the condition of the roof, the state of plumbing, electrical wiring, insulation and ventilation. The inspector also checks related environmental and safety issues. The assessment then becomes an important document both for the seller and the buyer. The seller may then carry out repairs before selling the property. Sometimes, the buyer also wants to commission an independent inspection to estimate the likely expenditure on repairs. Warranty companies, banks and realtors also commission inspections. There is therefore no shortage of business.

Training and qualifications: There are two ways to prepare yourself for the home inspection service business. The first is to do a course with the American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Home Inspectors. The second option is to join a training program offered by a franchisor. In the latter case, a lot of your problems will be taken care of by the franchisor.

However, it is always advisable to learn about the home inspection service business by going along with an inspector, and observing what the inspector does. This is important because a home inspection requires climbing roofs, crawling through dark and damp attics to locate the causes of cracks, leaks, water stains etc. It is always good if you have a background in remodeling, engineering or home rehabilitation. Then you are able to spot problems easily, and suggest solutions.

You also need to present yourself well. Home inspectors who are shabbily dressed or who cannot explain a structural fault in layman's terms make poor home inspectors. It is essential to communicate well in this industry. Equally important is the preparation of the report. It should list all points clearly.

Another important attribute for a home inspector is analytical skills. A home inspector should be able to locate faults, and analyze reasons for those faults.

Investment: The home inspection service business does not call for much investment. All that the home inspector needs is to undertake a course in home inspection, and buy errors-and-omissions insurance to cover himself against claims in the event of oversights or mistakes.

Earnings: It takes time to establish yourself in the home inspection service business. The first couple of years are tough, and it will not be easy to get contracts. However, once you are established in your area you can hope to make $40,000 to $90,000 every year.

Promotion: You need to target the realtors because they supply the largest chunk of home inspection service business. You must contact all realtors in your area personally, and leave your business card behind. Over the years you will develop good relations with some realtors who will supply you with good business. You can also meet bank managers dealing in home loans and offer your services for home inspection. You should also become a member of the Association of Realtors in your area as well as of national associations. This may or may not bring you extra business but it will give you extra respectability. There is no harm in distributing flyers in your area once in a while or getting listed in the yellow pages. It will increase your reach.

Suffering from drafty rooms, musty odor, water leaks or household pest infestation? Then it's a caveat that you should have your home inspected. The home is the best haven to have rest and recreation but who could reprieve when all the inconveniences laze around our very own homes. In order placate from those household worries, it's time to have some home inspection. Home inspection is a very comprehensive and meticulous process.

Every home needs to be inspected regularly. This is to ensure that your home is still in a good condition. Aside from that, home inspection is very crucial for every home buyer. They usually see to it that the prospect home that they are about to procure is scrupulously inspected. They wouldn't place an escrow unless otherwise it had passed the standards. Most of the time home buyers or even owners are really having a hard time deciphering what a home inspection really is. So more often than not, they are not really sure whether the most serious defects of their homes are meticulously checked.

Home inspection varies drastically all throughout the different states as well as countries. It actually depends on the standards of the inspector and the particular association that he is affiliated with. There are certain components that a home inspector should carefully check on. Asbestos is among the lists. It can usually be found in old homes. This is a serious health threat that must be instantaneously eliminated. Radon is another component that must be ridden of. It naturally forms when the uranium in the soil, rock or water severs. Radon is known to be carcinogenic and is believed to cause lung cancer. Wood-destroying pests like termites must also be charily checked.

Stachybotrys chartarum also known as black mold or toxic mold is dreaded among households since this is a hard-hitting foe. Some owners just totally burn down their houses in an attempt to absolutely eradicate the bad black mold. Humid environment should also be thwarted since mildew and fungi usually thrive in it. Mold-testing usually costs at around three-hundred to five-hundred US dollars. Lead is also another dilemma of home owners. This is very toxic specially when being ingested and can even lead to cognitive disabilities, seizures or worst-death. It has been the leading cause of poisoning among toddlers. The aforementioned stuffs were some helpful tips in conducting a home inspection. Exterminating these home predicaments would mean a soporific abode.

So, while vacating the place for some general home inspection, you can build your tent using mesh sun shade cloth tarps or heavy duty white shade tarps. The mesh sun shade cloth tarps can last up to 20 years and can give you 73% protection from the harmful rays of the sun and the heavy duty white tarps can give you a high durability against all the elements. Enjoy your stay outdoors while you get a home inspection, the mesh sun shade cloth tarps or heavy duty white shade tarps will make you snug while you get some outdoor breather.

What are some of the common problems that a home inspection has uncovered to the surprise of unsuspecting buyers? There are many that can affect the habitability of a home, not to mention the safety. The inspection, even if it is not required should be performed anyway. This is the only way you are going to have the peace of mind that a home inspection can provide.

The person conducting the home inspection has no interest in whether the home passes the inspection or not. They are simply looking at all the different aspects of the home to determine if it is a safe home in which to live.

What are Some of the Most Common Problems?

There are common problems they will look for first. Often the roof is the culprit when it comes to causing major problems. Many roofers in the tend to shingle over existing shingles. This can trap water causing the shingles to deteriorate or the flashing can be loose. The rafters or roof trusses can become weak and begin to give in places.

More common problems especially in certain areas are the foundation can develop cracks. There may be water marks that will be a sure sign of trouble. These may be common problems uncovered by the home inspection, but they are not small by any means and they can be expensive to fix.

Another item that is often not replaced until it quits working is the heating and air conditioning. If the system is old, it should have been replaced before now. The older the system the more likely the chance it will break down when it is needed. Older systems are also hard to find parts for and this means spending more money right away to replace this system.

The home inspection will include the wiring of the home. Many homes that were built before the 1970's do not have the grounded outlets that automatically turn off if something goes wrong. The doors and windows of a home are another common area that have been discovered by many inspectors. If they do not open and close correctly, it can be due to the walls.

When checking the pipes of the home, often a leak will be found. The homeowner may not be aware of a leak if it is a smaller one. But small leaks can lead to more serious problems and before you know it, you will need to replace flooring.

Other common problems can include simple things that should be replaced by routine maintenance. If a window develops a crack, this should be taken care of when it is first noticed. All of these things can hurt the chances of selling your home when an inspection is done. The driveway should not be developing cracks nor should the sidewalk that leads to your entrance.

Are there signs of infestations? The home inspection will include this in their checklist of problems associated with the house. Termite damage is another common problem. They will often check to determine if these pests are present. There are several areas of the home inspection that will uncover minor problems that you will probably negotiate and still purchase the home. However, if the inspection reveals major problems, it is time to walk away because you will spend more money than is worthwhile by having to repair your home.

Your best investment for new or existing home construction is a complete home inspection. By having your home inspected you show an understanding of being aware of your investment and being certain it is protected by allowing a qualified inspector to remove any doubt about the property. Buying a new or existing home can be risky so you should include a home inspection in your list of things to have done.

Do you understand a home inspection and the reasons for it?

A house inspection is a neutral appraisal of the homes overall integrity (floors, walls, roof, foundation, etc.) and interdependent elements (plumbing, mechanical, electrical) of the building, from roof to foundation. The purpose is not to assign value, but to grade the condition of the building. A home inspection provides for your general safety, financial protection, and your peace of mind. Seeing as though 80 percent of home buyers employ the services of a home inspector, it is now seen as a normal way of purchasing a home.

What can you expect from a home inspection report?

Having your home inspected helps to figure out the integrity of the house. It gives insightful information on the condition of the entire building. A home inspector gathers data as he or she make observations on every detail of your home. Upon completion of the data, a report is put together that will explain the overall condition of your home. It gives an evaluation of your homes integrity and address issues that may be in need of repair. Along with a complete report, your inspector will explain everything so that you have a complete understanding of your potential investment. Your report, which will contain important information, will put you in a positive position to keep your home in great condition for many years to come.

Why is a home inspector recommended?

Home inspectors know the key components of housing construction practices, typical standards, and building products. They have the specific knowledge in the how, where, and what to inspect on your home. In addition, home inspectors carry insurance to cover the rare occasions in which there may be any errors in their findings. You should seriously consider using a home inspector who is accredited and may also be a member of a home inspection association body. You may pay a little more in up front cost; however, it is a small price to pay to avoid buying a home with potential hidden damage.

The services of a home inspector is well worth the cost when it comes to knowing the condition of your new home. It allows you to keep an eye on the quality of your home while it is being built and give you a chance to catch problems during the warranty period. For anyone buying a house, a home inspection should be apart of that decision. The underlying goal of a home inspection is so you can obtain as much information as possible about your investment. Since buying a home or building one from a set of house plans may be the most expensive single investment you'll ever make, you should hire a home inspector who is professional, unbiased, and will work on your behalf to protect you.

Congratulations on taking the first step for purchasing a home. But is the home inspected? Do you have a detailed property inspection report?

Results of a home inspection can make or break the sale of a home. Also, mortgage companies look closely at home inspection reports to ensure their investment is worthwhile. Inspecting the physical condition of a home is a very important aspect of the home-buying process. You should include the same in your purchase contract before closing the sale.

A qualified home inspector performs the home inspection using a checklist to ensure every aspect of the structure and its surrounding is covered. It is beneficial to cross check your home inspection report with the seller's inspection report to ensure nothing has been missed.

As a buyer, you can be armed with a checklist. Also compare it with a property inspector's list to ensure nothing is amiss.

Structural Inspection

It is vital for the home to be structurally solid and safe. Structural features inspected include roofing, floors, attic, walls, ceilings, columns, basement & foundation.

Roofing

Roofing and exterior components refer to external features of the home. The inspection would cover the patio, deck, exterior windows & doors etc. The garage is also checked as a part exterior inspection. Water drains are tested for proper functioning.

HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Inspection

Air conditioning, heating, plumbing and electrical are examined for proper performance. The inspector checks all the utilities for the proper installation and function. This includes vent systems, water and waste drainage, water system, etc. Property inspectors examine the proper functioning of appliances to check for plumbing or electrical issues.

Interior Inspection

The interior house inspection covers ceilings, floors, walls & stairs. Every aspect of the interior inspection including steps, balconies, windows, doors, etc. are checked.

Insulation and Ventilation Inspection

The house inspection includes a check of ventilation in the kitchen, bathroom, and attic. Home inspectors check the foundation and subfloor for any issues. Every home is checked for possible problems based on the geographical location.

If the home inspection reports indicate that the house is in good condition, you can advance with the purchase, knowing you're getting a good deal.

Also, if the inspections bring some issues to light - such as electrical or plumbing damage, etc. - you can negotiate with the seller to pay for necessary fixes OR lower the purchase price. As a home buyer, you need to equip yourself with all the details about the home before you make the purchase. The home inspection process ensures that your investment is a safe bet.

A proper home inspection performed by a qualified Home Inspector will provide you with important information you will need to make decisions about the home you are considering purchasing. When you walk away from the inspection, you should understand what if any major issues the home has and what repairs might be required. This information should be shared with your Realtor if you're working with one, who can advise you on whether or not to renegotiate the price to accommodate major repairs.

3 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Home Inspection

Prepare Questions: Before you meet with the inspector for the inspection appointment, make a list of any questions or concerns you have about the house, based on your initial viewing. Add questions about any particular appliance or system that are new to you, and ask about any renovation or remodelling plans you might be considering. A qualified home inspector should be able to answer most, if not all, of these questions. The purpose of the inspection isn't just to ascertain whether or not the home is in good working order, but also to give you a chance to ask questions about the operation and maintenance of the house.

Take Notes: Bring a pad of paper and a pen with you to your inspection appointment, and take as many notes as you need. You will likely be learning quite a lot of new information about your home, and it's a good idea to jot this down to make sure you remember it, especially when it comes to maintenance, how things operate, and renovation insights. The home inspection is also a good opportunity for you to measure the size of rooms.

Attend the Inspection: If at all possible, the best option is always to attend the inspection and walk through the house with your inspector. This will give you the very best opportunity to ask questions that may make or break your decision to buy the home, so even though it seems like a pain to set aside the time, we always recommend it. If you can't attend, think about sending a trusted friend or relative, your Edmonton Realtor, or contact your inspector by phone after the inspection to review the details of the report.

Remember that no home is perfect, not even newly built ones. Every home will have flaws uncovered during the inspection processes. Be prepared to review these issues with your seller and negotiate, but also be prepared to walk away if the inspection uncovers major issues you're not willing to take on.

Whether you're buying or selling a home, a home inspection is a significant part of the process. Who should be there besides the home inspector when it happens?

Let's look at an important reason why you should be present when the home is inspected. Suppose you're buying a home. Then you find all kinds of problems afterward, and you don't believe the home was properly inspected. First, were you there when the home was inspected? Did you read the full report and not just a summary or repair request document?

It's your home inspector's job to discover and disclose whatever he finds regarding the condition of a home. However, if you're not there when he does his inspection, you'll miss key points.

Be sure to carefully review the report when you receive it. Ask for the inspector's help if you're unclear on something. Get with your real estate agent to prepare a repair request, if that's needed.

What should you do during the home inspection? Your primary task is to observe and listen. Watch and get familiar with how your inspector does his job. Ask questions. He should welcome your participation in the inspection. There should be few if any issues you don't know about after the inspection.

There's someone else you may want present when the home inspection is performed-your real estate agent. If you're comfortable with your agent, she can provide moral support for you during the inspection. Besides, your agent knows you may refer others to her if she's supportive of you all the way through the buying or selling process.

If you haven't met your home inspector in person before the inspection, perhaps your agent can introduce you to one another. Buying or selling a home can be a fearful ordeal. It's one of the most difficult and costly decisions you'll make. However, if the three of you get acquainted with one another, it can lessen the fear and tension. This can be especially true if you're buying a home in a community strange to you.

It's up to the agent what she does during the inspection, since she doesn't need to participate as much as you. Nonetheless, it can help to know she's there if you have questions or concerns for her. For example, if you're buying a home that needs roof repair, she may be able to tell you if it's covered in the sales contract.

Your real estate agent can also do a little, but important thing before the inspection even begins-open the door of the home. Your inspector shouldn't have access to the home himself with you or your agent being there with the key. If he can't get inside, he can't do the thorough inspection he must do.

When the inspection is completed, your agent can sit in with you on the inspection wrap up and report review. If there's a concern, the inspector can go over it with both you and the agent. Your agent can assist with anything relevant to the sales contract. It can clear up and avoid confusion if you and your agent see and hear the same thing from the inspector.

In summary, make it a point to be there when your home inspection is carried out. If possible, have your real estate agent there, too. This can take a lot of anxiety out of buying or selling a home.

The city of New York might offer you a lot of home buying options. The borough of Queens being one of the most sought after addresses most of the people dream to own a piece of property here. But, buying a property suiting your budget can be a back-breaking task. Plus, the hidden costs in the form of repairs yet to be undertaken, is an issue that might need your undivided attention. To avoid unnecessary problems later on, one needs the services of a home inspection queens professional. Time being a valuable asset for most of the people now, services like these, is needed on an increased basis. The personnel hired should be trustworthy and committed to find for you a right piece of property.

You will realize later on that hiring the services of queens' inspector is worthwhile because of the fact that this saves you from a lot of problems. There are a lot of aspects that need to be taken into account before you finalize a deal with the builder. A home inspection queen brings for you a professional service, which deals with the inspection of the houses. Being the people, who handle these kinds of tasks very well, they go ahead in a stepwise manner before giving you a go-ahead for buying any house. Their rates vary greatly depending upon the situation. Many of them go by the pay per hour, which is $300. The kind of details they go into while selecting a house for you might get overlooked, if you go ahead on your own. You should select home inspection queens professional, who charges you quite fairly.

Many of the realtors will suggest you the home inspectors they know, believing in the fact they might overlook many important details. Obviously, they have a stake here. But some of the good home inspectors in Queens will make it sure that they go for the kill. For a proper checking they will look outside the home. This is to make sure the land on which the house is standing, is of high quality. If the soil shows signs of pooling or retaining the water, then that is an indicator of moisture on the basement or the walls. The home inspection Queens personnel see to it that the earth should slope away from the foundation of the house.

The charges you pay the home inspection service personnel depend upon the area you are putting in. The rates are fixed on the kind of amount you pay for any house, but that is generally within reach. As the realtors might suggest you the services of an inexperienced home inspector in Queens, it is for you to decide who you are going to associate with. A bit depends upon your intuition or the suggestions of friends. The decision, however, finally rests with you, to spot a trained home inspection Queens professional. A ready pointer towards this direction would be to check the past handling of these cases by the home inspectors. And if you are able to successfully do that, be assured of a house free of most of the avoidable conditions.