Buying a house is probably one of most important purchases you will make in your lifetime. No matter how perfect the house, neighborhood, property, or even the cost may be it is always beneficial to get a home inspected before you buy it. Some things, like termite infestations in the foundation, lead paint on the walls, or dying trees near the house, can potentially cause serious damage to the house or your family. While it can be moderately pricy to have different inspections performed on a house, it is better to spend hundreds of dollars before a purchase than thousands after it in repairs.
As a future homebuyer, you need to understand what a comprehensive inspection entails, what things to keep an eye out for, and where you can find an expert home inspector. Having a home inspected gives future homeowners a peace of mind about their purchase because then they know everything about the house from an unbiased source. Also, if an inspector finds something wrong with the house it can be taken into consideration in the final price of a sale or it can be fixed by the seller before the sale.
The three primary objectives a home inspector has are to evaluate the physical condition of the house, identify repairs, and estimate the lifespan of major components in the house. In evaluating the physical condition of the house, inspectors will take into account the foundation and structure, the performance of the mechanical systems, and the construction and makeup of the entire house. The major components of the house that are given estimated life spans are traditionally the electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, finishes, equipment and structures. Knowing these factors about a house can save thousands of dollars down the road in premature repairs.
A good home inspection will usually cost between $200 to $500, depending on the size, age, and location of the house, and traditionally lasts about three hours. Within three to five days of the inspection, the inspection agency will provide a thorough report detailing all of their findings.
For an extra fee, inspectors will usually be able to extend their investigation to study a few extra risky items, such as swimming pools, trees, older homes, and the deep-down effects of pests and mold. Homes older than 35 years, and especially ones older than 80 years, should be given special attention either by your home inspector or an older-home specialist. A pool inspection is relatively inexpensive, around $75 to $125, and can surprisingly save a lot of money by catching problems located in the filters, heaters, vacuums, covers, diving equipment, or expansion joints. A tree inspection can cost a bit more, in the $150 to $350 range, but the damage a dead tree falling on your house can cause both to your home or your family could end up costing you considerably more.
You can find an experienced home inspector in the yellow pages, the internet, or through your real estate agent by clicking here. Home inspection is a relatively inexpensive way to protect your investment and to ensure the safety of those you love.
Consumer Savvy Tips – Don’t buy a home without a home inspection
US Department of Housing – Home Inspection
Bankrate- Inspection Horrors
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