Home Inspection Tips:
(courtesy of
About.Com - Homebuying Tips)
When
buying a home, you'll probably perform one or more home
inspections to confirm that all of the home's important
components are functional. These home buying resources help
you determine which types of inspections you might need for
your new home.
Do You
Really Need a Home Inspection?
When you are buying a home, don't confuse pest and
structural inspections with an optional, full-blown home
inspection by a certified inspector that takes a look at all systems within the
house.
Passing
Your Home Inspection
Nearly all home buyers will hire a professional home
inspector to inspect your home before they go to closing. Is
your home ready? Here are several hot-spots that worry
buyers the most.
The Final
Walk Through
It's important for home buyers to do a formal walk-through
prior to closing on a home. Find out when you should do the
walk-through, and what you should look for. Important advice
for anyone who's buying a home.
Before
You Get Started (Courtesy
of About.com)
Evaluating a
property is something both buyer and seller should do. An
evaluation (or inspection) allows a buyer to assess the
condition of a house before any money is exchanged.
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An inspection is also advantageous for the seller to find
out what's right and wrong with the house before putting it
on the market.
Also, lending institutions may require an
inspection before approving a loan.
Even if you're not buying or selling a house, evaluating the
house will give you a good sense of what work and
improvements are needed to maintain or increase its value.
Remember that the purpose of a home inspection is not just
to find items that need repair or replacement.
You're also
checking for upcoming maintenance expenses and recording the
condition of the property prior to sale.
Use a checklist to make sure that you are looking at all
parts of the house. Check off those items that are in good
condition, and make notes about those that aren't.
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Byron inspecting an
electrical panel |
Before you and/or a professional inspector examine a house,
make sure to check these items:
- Utilities are
turned on,
- You have access to all parts of the house,
- Permission to operate all appliances and heating/cooling
systems
- Ask if it's all right to videotape the house.
Here are
some specific questions to ask:
- Who
performed the work on any recent repairs, improvements
or remodeling?
- Were the
appropriate building permits obtained and inspections
performed?
- Have
there been any leaks in the roof?
- How old
is the roof?
- Has
there been water in the basement?
- Has the
septic system or sewer line required unusual
maintenance?
- Can you
provide copies of heating, electric, and other utility
bills?
- Has an
exterminator ever been hired for the property?
- Has the
house been tested for radon?
Here are
some Seasonal Helpful Tips from Lowes Home Building
Supplies.
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