Home Inspections provide a definite value by giving a level of objectivity in evaluating a home.  When a homeowner determines the value or condition of a home, it is very difficult to separate the emotional aspects of the home from the objective inventory of features and condition.  It is part of our nature to invoke the emotional value in a home, which can cause a conflict in the sale process.  A deal for buying a home can fall apart over old appliances or home improvement work that has sentimental but not intrinsic value.

Home inspectors play the role of objective third party.  Typically, home inspectors evaluate a property within ten days after mutual acceptance of the purchase and sale agreement.  This inspection only checks the condition of the home at the time of inspection and is no guarantee of condition beyond that point.  Some features of a home may not be included in the inspection such as security systems, in-ground sprinklers, or toxic or hazardous materials.

Buyers should be present at the inspection and observe.  A good inspector will freely describe what they are looking at, how to check for problems and what condition they believe the area is in.  Often they can show you useful things like a shut off for water, where to light a pilot light on a furnace and other bits of information.  Do not settle for a verbal confirmation of condition on a property - get a report in writing.  Some inspectors will fill out a standard inspection checklist, but detailed reports are far more helpful.  This is not to say that inspectors will catch every possible problem in a home, but a thorough inspection will give a much greater piece of mind to a purchaser.

A typical inspection will cost about $275 to $400 and one to two hours.  The inspector typically spends two to three hours visually examining all aspects of a home, including the roof, foundation, attic, insulation, walkways, heating and air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical system.  It is recommended that any home, even a new home, be inspected.  Often in a rush to develop a subdivision corners may be cut that can present problems in the near future.  The new home delivered to you may not be as flawless as the model on your tour.  Inspections allow buyers and sellers to resolve problems prior to closing and makes it less likely to the buyer that some defect has not been disclosed about the property.

Here are some inspectors Dianne recommends as reputable, knowledgeable, and professional home inspectors in our area