Kathy Riggs April 26th, 2010
The Spring 2010 selling season is in full bloom and if you want to take advantage of the tax credit, this is the last week to go under contract. Unless there is an extension, you must have a fully executed, binding contract by April 30, 2010 to be eligible.
National statistics show that 47 percent of buyers in 2009 were first time homebuyers, which means the home inspectors are busy.
A few tips for buyers will make the home inspection a little less traumatic. And they can be traumatic for buyers and sellers – the buyer wants a perfect house and the sellers don’t understand why buyers just can’t be happy with a few imperfections. (As I said in my previous post, I’ve never seen a buyer accept a house with leaky faucets.)
First, decide which way to go. You can hire specific professionals – such as plumbers, licensed electricians or contractors to come in and evaluate specific components of the house; or you can hire a general home inspector to inspect the house and recommend if you need further evaluation by licensed experts. It is fitting to note that home inspectors may or may not be licensed in particular areas.
Second, after deciding which route you prefer, ask for references. Your REALTOR can be a great help here, having worked with many different professionals. Some inspectors may also offer WDIIR services (aka termite inspections) and the two tasks can be accomplished at the same time.
Third, if you are using a Home Inspector, ask to see a sample report.
Fourth, determine if you need any additional inspections such as septic tank inspections or environmental reports.
Finally, go along on the inspection. You can ask the inspector to explain any issue or why notes are written a certain way.
Keep in mind that the inspections are not guarantees that something won’t break down in the future. They are objective evaluations of a property by a third party. Ask your REALTOR for another copy of Questions and Answers on Home Inspections if you misplaced the one she gave you when you signed the offer or listing contract.
Kathy Riggs April 11th, 2010
Now that Spring 2010 is in full bloom – and if you don’t live in a town that is flush with azaleas you should consider coming to Kinston NC – buyers and sellers are getting into action.
If your house is on the market hopefully it will go under contract soon and that means it will most likely be the subject of home inspection. Although real estate agents may cringe at the mention of certain inspectors, the inspectors are only doing there their jobs when they nit pick a house. Electrical, plumbing and roofing issues are three areas of primary importance to a buyer. And with general upkeep and a little preparation the seller can be ready for the home inspector
Often the repairs or maintenance done to a house during its history by people who were neither licensed nor knowledgeable will come back to haunt them. The inspector can determine if there is inefficient electrical service and inadequate overload projection. One issue easily repaired is wires that have been joined together, but not placed in a junction box. Homeowners should always check to see what permits are required before tackling a project that may raise red flags when the house is on the market.
Almost every house has a few plumbing issues and I have never seen a buyer that will accept a house with a leaking faucet. Replacing a 50-cent washer can often correct this problem. So, sellers think twice before insisting your home must be marketed “AS IS”, many problems are simple to fix. Sellers should check all faucets, if not before the For Sale sign goes up, at least before the home inspector knocks on the door. Other plumbing issues to check include checking all sinks and drains and make sure all toilets are bolted securely to the floor.
In general preparation for a home inspection should come before the house goes on the market. Walk around your house, inside and out, with a crucial eye. Look at your roof with a pair of binoculars. Are shingles missing? If you discover something you would not accept if you were looking for a house, chances are your buyer prospect won’t accept it either.
On the Lighter Side…
By the time you pay for a house in the suburbs, it isn’t.
SHAMELESS PLUG
Looking for some rental properties? Call me at 252-939-2432 or email me at kriggs@kathyriggs.com
and let me show you some listings that will provide a good return on your investment.