Buyers, Inspect the Inspectors
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.
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