By Josh Zussman
TNCP Community Writer
Buying a home is one of the most important purchases you will make in your lifetime, so you should be sure that the home you want to buy is in good condition. A home inspection is an evaluation of a home’s condition by a trained expert. During a home inspection, a qualified inspector takes an in-depth and impartial look at the property you plan to buy. The inspector will:
o Evaluate the physical condition: the structure, construction and mechanical systems.
o Identify items that should be repaired or replaced.
o Estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems such as electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, structure and finishes.
The bottom line is that by investing a couple hundred dollars you may save thousands of dollars. For example, imagine moving into your new home to find severe structural damage due to termite infestation. Resolution of this problem could cost thousands of dollars. A home inspection would have identified the problem.
When you make a written offer on a home, you should insist that the contract state that the offer is contingent on a home inspection conducted by a qualified inspector. You will have to pay for the inspection yourself, but it could keep you from buying a house that will cost you far more in repairs down the road. If you are satisfied with the results of the inspection, then your offer can proceed.
The home inspection will give you the following:
o Provides peace of mind, helps you to make a sound home-buying decision.
o Reveals the need for repairs or replacements before you buy.
o Limits the number of surprises you may discover after you move in.
o Gives you invaluable details about your new home–the condition of the property, where the main shutoff valves to the utilities are located, how the house operates, and more.
If you are selling a home, you want to know about such potential hidden problems before your house goes on the market. Sometimes Sellers pay for their own inspection before putting their home on the market to find out about any hidden problems and correct them in advance.
A quality home inspector will follow the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics as described by The American Society of Home Inspectors.
A home inspection informs the buyer of the positive aspects of the home, as well as any maintenance that may be recommended to keep the house in good shape and to keep all major systems operating smoothly. After the inspection, you will have a much better understanding of the property you intend to purchase.
Josh Zussman is the owner of Champion Home Inspection. He is a licensed builder, has twenty-two years experience in the building trades and home inspection, multiple home inspection certifications and offers competitive pricing. He welcomes the opportunity to be considered for your home inspection needs. Contact Josh at (517) 410-8909.
