Home Inspections

Buying a home is exciting for many people.  In the majority of the population, a home purchase is the largest financial transaction that they are likely to make, which can also make the process somewhat nerve-wracking.  Since a Buyer is going to be spending a lot of money, and committing to pay back the mortgage for the next 15 to 30 years, they want to make sure the home is in good condition when they move in.

As a Realtor® I always advise my clients to have a home inspection by a certified home inspector.  There are several inspectors in our area who do a wonderful job at pointing out items in the home that Buyers should be aware of when purchasing real estate.  Home inspectors usually offer a variety of tests that can be done.  A whole house inspection reveals a lot of information about the home including: the structure of the home; condition of the wiring and electrical systems, HVAC, and central air conditioning; condition and installation of plumbing and appliances; as well as the condition exterior items, such as the roof and crawlspace.  This is a very general overlook of what home inspectors examine when they are at your home.  In addition, other test can be ordered depending on the needs of a specific Buyer for a specific home.  Termites are a common problem in Southwestern Indiana, so we often recommend having the home for the presence of termites. Septic inspections are recommended for any home with a septic system, and Radon tests are useful in many homes with basements.  As a Buyer, you can ask your agent which tests are the best option for you when purchasing a home.

I recommend that my Buyers try to attend the inspections.  This offers them the opportunity to ask the inspector any questions about any items at the home while the information is still fresh in his mind.  Also, if there is something that they had noticed  in previous showings, they are more likely to point out the item to the inspector to make sure it is fully inspected.  As an agent, I try to attend inspections with my clients as much as possible.  This helps me to fully understand the information that will be put on the report, and makes it easier to discuss any repairs that they might ask the Seller to do.

The home inspection is an important step in the home buying process.  Make sure to use a qualified, trusted inspector in conjunction with a good Realtor® to help make this step as stress free as possible.