If your offer to buy a home has been accepted, your next step is to get a professional home inspection. Here are answers to common questions homebuyers have about this critical step in the homebuying process. Including what to do if the inspection turns up something you’re hoping it won’t.
The Most Common Questions About Home Inspections, Answered!
1 – Why is getting a home inspection so important?
Your home inspection is the only way to find out the truth about the condition of the property you want to buy. It’s critical to your purchase, so you need to make the inspection process seriously.
A licensed home inspector will carefully examine your home from the roof to the foundation and everything in between. He or she will also point out any problems that need to be addressed or repaired. That way, you’ll know in advance just what you’re getting into with your purchase and what you might have to spend to fix things up.
2 – Is a home inspection required?
There is no law stating that a home inspection is required before you buy a home. But most real estate agents and home sellers strongly recommend that you get one. Even if your agent has done a thorough walk-through and found nothing wrong, it helps to have a professional confirm that the property’s condition is what you expect.
While you may be able to find a home inspector who will waive the inspection fee for the buyer, the inspector may not be able to offer a warranty for the inspection. And warranties are a good idea. Most home inspectors offer a one-year warranty, with certain limitations. You may be able to negotiate an additional warranty or pay a small fee for an extended warranty.
3 – Who pays for the home inspection?
It’s customary for the buyer to pay for the home inspection. However, in some states, when the buyer is represented by a real estate agent, the agent pays for the inspection. In other states, when the buyer is represented by an agent, the seller pays.
If you’re buying a home with a limited-equity loan, FHA loan, VA loan, or Rural Development loan, it’s likely that you won’t be able to use your home inspection report to negotiate a price adjustment.
If you’re buying a home with a conventional loan, you may be able to negotiate a price adjustment if the home inspection reveals a serious problem.
4 – What should I look for in a home inspector?
Look for a home inspector who is licensed or certified by a reputable state or local agency.
A good home inspector should be certified by the Home Inspector Licensing Council, which is a joint venture between the American Association of Home Inspectors (AAHI) and the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). It’s also a good idea to make sure the home inspector you hire is insured.
Conclusion
If you want to buy a home, a home inspection is a critical step. It’s the only way to learn the true condition of the property you want to buy. If you want your home inspection to be effective, find a professional home inspector who is insured and has been certified by a reputable agency.
Should you need a home inspection in Tulsa, contact AEI Inspections. With over 30 years of experience in home inspection and structural engineering, our team at the AEI have the extensive knowledge and background needed to identify structural issues and perform testing and troubleshooting of all residential home components and systems.
