A home inspection is an integral part of the home purchasing process. It is usually the first step a purchaser takes before buying a property.
It provides a visual examination of the accessible components and systems, using the guidelines as defined by ASHI, or the American Society of Home Inspectors, as a reference. The information and data obtained from the inspection will be used when negotiating the property’s purchase price.
What Does the Inspection Involve?
It is critical to conduct a home inspection to avoid a costly mistake by purchasing a property needing major repairs. Generally, the inspector will examine the general conditions of the structure, including the roof, chimney, plumbing, electrical appliances, and heating and cooling systems. They will also inspect the home’s structural components, including the foundation, framing, support beams, and the main plumbing lines.
When examining the mechanical components, the inspector will report on the type of heating system used, whether gas or oil and how it works. The inspector will also look at the electrical connections, control panels, and wiring.
The inspector is required by law to complete a detailed inspection report on the status of the home. The inspector’s report is written and signed, and presented to the purchaser for review. The purchaser then has the option to either complete the purchase or not.
As a guide, here are five reasons homebuyers need to have a home inspection before any purchase:
1. Home Inspections Immediately Identify the Condition of a Home
A home inspection can help immediately identify the condition of a home. For example, if a home has a broken window, an inspector will locate the problem and report it. If serious problems are found, the seller may lower the home price to hbe considerate with potential buyers.
2. They Determine if Major Repairs Need to be Made to the Home
A home inspection can help the purchaser determine if major repairs need to be made to the home. For example, if the property is wood-framed and the inspector finds that the wood is rotting and wet, the purchaser may want to reconsider purchasing the home. Failing to fix this problem could lead to more significant repairs.
3. Home Inspection Helps the Purchaser Avoid Costly Mistakes
A home inspection helps the purchaser avoid costly mistakes. For example, if the inspector finds problems such as a crack in the foundation, the purchaser can avoid purchasing the home. The repairs for this problem can be costly and often require the foundation to be removed and replaced.
4. Helps the Purchaser Get Out of the Contract
Furthermore, home inspection helps the purchaser get their money back if the problems are severe and exist at the inspection time. For example, if the home inspector finds serious foundation problems and the inspection is done before the sale of the home, the purchaser can get out of the contract and get their money back.
5. Helps the Purchaser Negotiate the Price of the Home
Besides getting out of a dodgy contract, a home inspection helps the purchaser negotiate the price of the home. For example, if the home inspector finds minor problems and the home’s sale is contingent upon the purchaser repairing the issues, the purchaser can negotiate a lower price for the home. The purchaser can then fix the problems and ask the seller to reimburse them for the repairs.
Conclusion
If you are looking to buy a home, you should consider having a home inspection done when you find a property you like. The inspection can help you make an educated decision, especially if you hire a professional tol provide an unbiased property evaluation. Moreover, by conducting inspections in advance, you can avoid costly repairs funded from your own pocket.
If you need to receive a home inspection in Tulsa, you can trust AEI Inspections to deliver. Our team has more than 30 years of experience in home inspections and structural engineering. We want to make sure that all safety standards are being met and that everything with the structure of your home is sound and up to code, whether you’re selling, buying, or maintaining. Call us today!
