The appearance of a house can be deceiving. Even though a home may seem perfect, serious issues could be hidden from view.
This is where a home inspection comes into play. It is crucial to have a professional inspection of the property before making a purchase, as it can reveal any potential problems that might take time to be noticeable.
When buying a home, it’s essential to understand that it’s a significant investment. Therefore, it makes sense to have a trained professional conduct a thorough inspection of the house. The inspector will check for any defects or repairs you may need, providing you with a detailed report of their findings. This will allow you to make an informed decision about the property and protect you from any unexpected issues in the future.
What is a home inspection?
Home inspections are an essential step in buying or selling a property. They are non-invasive visual assessments performed by a licensed inspector and are necessary for both new and old homes. These inspections reveal information about the property’s condition that the untrained eye may miss. With an inspection, buyers, and sellers may be aware of potential problems, leading to costly repairs and unexpected expenses.
It’s worth mentioning that when applying for a mortgage, the lender will require a property inspection as a prerequisite for loan approval.
The inspection gives insight into the property’s condition, thus enabling the buyer to negotiate with the seller or withdraw from the agreement if necessary. An inspection is a crucial step in the buying process. It benefits both the buyer and the seller as it highlights any problems that need to be resolved before listing the property for sale.
How To Choose a Qualified Home Inspector
Only trained and experienced home inspectors can find the problems with your home. Investigate the house inspector’s background, education, experience, fees, and the quality of their reports before hiring them.
Types of Home Inspections
Home inspections can be broadly classified into two categories: general and specialized. The age and condition of the home will determine the type of inspection needed.
A general inspection covers the exterior and interior of the home. Once completed, the inspector may suggest specialized inspections for specific areas of concern, such as checking for asbestos, radon, termites, and mold or inspecting the chimney.
What is the average cost of a home inspection ?
Home inspection cost in Colorado ranges from USD$250 to USD$350 and can vary based on property size and location, but it can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances.
When it comes to specialized inspections, the cost can range from USD$25 to USD$500, depending on the type of inspection needed. Additionally, if repairs are made after the initial inspection, a re-inspection may be necessary to confirm that the issues have been addressed. The re-inspection cost can vary, but it is typically between USD$50 to USD$100.
How are home inspections conducted ?
A home inspection is an important step in the home-buying process. It allows buyers to have a trained professional evaluate the property’s condition before making a purchase.
Buyers can back out of the offer by including an inspection contingency in the purchase agreement if significant problems are found within a specified time frame.
According to the expert staff from Cedar Home Loans, the inspection process typically takes between two to three hours, and it’s beneficial for the buyer to be present during the inspection. This way, they can ask questions and get detailed explanations of any issues the inspector finds. The inspector will also provide a report outlining their findings, classifying problems as minor, major, or safety concerns, identifying items that need repair or replacement, and pointing out issues that require close monitoring.
A Detailed Home Inspection Checklist
Interior Inspection
When inspecting the interior of a home, it is essential to thoroughly examine every aspect, including the ceiling and the cabinets under the sink.. The following are examples of things your home inspector may look for within your house:
- Plumbing
- Electricity
- HVAC System
- Water Heater
- Kitchen Appliances
- Fire Safety
- Bathroom
- Laundry Room
Exterior Inspection
During the inspection, the inspector will thoroughly examine the property’s exterior. This may include accessing hard-to-reach areas, such as under the house, and climbing a ladder to inspect the roof and upper areas of the house. Some of the specific exterior areas that an inspector will examine include:
- Garage
- Exterior Walls
- Foundation
- Grading
- Roof
Key Takeaway
A home inspection typically required by your lender, such as Cedar Home Loans, may seem like an added expense and inconvenience, but it is worth it in the long run. It helps you identify any issues with the property that the seller should address before you move in or gives you the option to back out of the purchase if necessary. Not only that, but it also educates you on the proper maintenance of your home and ensures its safety. In the end, a home inspection can save you significant money.
