While this is probably among the most exciting moments in your life, we also know that buying a new home may be one of the biggest - and potentially the most stressful - transactions you’ll ever make.
Because home inspection is one of the most significant components of the homebuying process we’ve put together some of our favorite tips to help ease your path to homeownership.
Tip #1: Hire a Professional Home Inspector
Finding a reputable, certified home inspector - especially if you’re moving from out of state - can be challenging.
You can start by asking your real estate agent for recommendations and perhaps even your mortgage broker, or insurance company. If you want to search online, Google reviews can provide great insights.
Once you’ve narrowed down the playing field, make sure the home inspector is licensed and insured as well as part of a trade association (like FABI or InterNACHI - or both).
When you’ve chosen an inspector, take note of how well they communicate and explain the home inspection process. This will show you how they report and explain their findings down the road.
Tip #2: Consider “Extras” You May Need
The home inspection is only one part of your due diligence when purchasing a home. There may be other types of inspections you need - or would like for peace of mind and potential insurance savings. Many home inspectors will add these a la carte inspections to your standard home inspection at a discounted rate when you do them at once.
Additional inspections you may want to consider are:
Insurance Inspections (including 4-Point and Wind Mitigation Inspections, these can result in substantial savings on your homeowners insurance)
Sewer Scope Inspection
WDO Inspection (wood-destroying organisms)
Thermal Inspections (can detect rot and moisture)
Pool and Pump Inspections (for pools as well as hot tubs)
Dock and Seawall Inspections
Tip #3: Work Through the Findings
A detailed home inspection report can be overwhelming and daunting with the laundry list of everything that is wrong with a home. Remember that it is the home inspector’s job to take note of all of the defects and provide you with all of the information possible on the condition of your home.
Also keep in mind that some of the findings may be easy fixes - ones the seller is willing to take care of or that you may even wish to do yourself.
If you followed Tip #1, you’ll have hire a home inspector who can walk you through the report and the findings and help you navigate the next steps.
If you’re still feeling overwhelmed, feel free to reach out to the experts at KC Inspections with any questions at 904-404-9092.