Why new homes should be inspected prior to purchase

Many home buyers believe they do not need to perform a home inspection if a house is less than five years old.  While understandable, this is a dramatic misconception that could prove costly. 

Even brand new homes will have defects of one kind or another, regardless of the construction quality. This happens since homes are built by humans, and there are bound to be oversights and mistakes that could give rise to flaws in the house.

Moreover, the first occupants of a brand new home may make modifications or perform renovations while they are living there.  This could include changes to the electrical wiring, or installation of a new bathroom.  If they list the home for sale after a few years, potential problems should not be overlooked.

For this reason, new homes should be inspected regardless of whether they will be delivered along with a builder's warranty. Home buyers assume they do not require a professional home inspector as municipal building inspectors conduct inspections on new homes. But that alone may not be enough.   As a future owner of the home, you want a certified inspector to investigate the home from the perspective of an occupant, which is a much higher standard of care.  There is a marked distinction between a professional home inspection and one performed by a county or municipal inspector. The county/municipal inspector confirms code compliance. The home inspection report prepared by the qualified home inspector will provide a comprehensive summary of all areas of concern.

Though there are quality control programs in place for new construction, it does not indicate future construction problems that might have been overlooked during that phase. These defects might show up later in the life of the house, most likely after the builder warranty has expired – but while you may still be an occupant of the home.

Home owners usually encounter these problems after the first year or two without knowing the actual reasons. Only a professional home inspector can conduct an in-depth inspection and point out the various issues to the prospective owner.

Buyers of brand new or relatively new homes should not overlook the home inspection portion of the purchase process.  A high quality home inspection is always worth the minor investment – considering the overall cost of a new home.

How to get your home ready for a home inspection

When a Seller gets a pre-listing home inspection OR a Home owner requires a periodic home inspection, they need to get their homes prepped for the home inspector so that the inspection is conducted in an optimal fashion. 

The following recommendations will help the seller/owner prepare for the home inspection in advance:

• 1.       Remove clutter so that the home inspector has visual access to as many areas as possible.
• 2.       Be on time to the inspection so that you can fully participate in all aspects of the investigation.
• 3.       Have the home exterior ready for inspection as the inspector may start examining the outer area of the home if you are not ready. This includes leaving fences unlocked and dogs tied up.
• 4.       The home inspector should be informed of the occupants of the home, especially any children or elderly people.
• 5.       To the extent possible, pets should be removed from the property to allow full access to all areas that are to be inspected.
• 6.       Closets need to be cleared if they provide access to the attic.
• 7.       Keep all utilities connected - The home inspector will have to check the stove, test the furnace and test the air conditioner. It is good to leave the utilities on, so that the inspector can assess their functionality.
• 8.       Provide a work area around Furnace and Water Heaters for the inspector.
• 9.       Many home inspectors may not check the pilot lights if they are not lit. It is a good idea to keep them on before the inspection process starts.
• 10. Ensure easy access to the garage and try to minimize overcrowding in this area.
• 11. The garage and electrical boxes should be kept open or have keys attached for ease of use.
• 12. Give ample time for the home inspector to conduct the inspection. Between 2-4 hours is typical. If you are aware of potential concerns, raise them immediately when the inspector arrives.

During the inspection, note any questions that may arise during the walk-through. Every home inspection will uncover a few flaws in your property. Discuss the problem areas, understand the urgency, and gain an estimate of the repair costs.

A good preparation for the home inspection is beneficial to all involved.  After all, a comprehensive report is facilitated by your active preparation...

How to choose a Home Inspection company

During the process of buying or selling a home, a home inspection plays an important role informing both sides about the current state of the house.  Moreover, existing home owners also seek an occasional home inspection to inform them about the state of the house and pursue necessary repairs before they become more costly. 

A home inspection consists of a thorough physical inspection of the home - both exterior and interior. The home inspector will then prepare a detailed home inspection report that summarizes the findings and highlights key areas of concern. The report includes the general condition of the home's foundation, electrical, plumbing, visible insulation, and other systems. This report is delivered to the client in a timely fashion following the inspection.

The average cost of a home inspection ranges from $350-$650, which provides excellent value as long as the Inspector is of a high caliber.  When one considers the magnitude of the problems that could impact a house, gaining comprehensive information easily pays for itself. 

For instance, a pre-listing home inspection paid for by a Seller, proves beneficial.    The home inspection report informs potential buyers of the condition of the property in advance of submitting a formal offer.  This helps facilitate a smooth sales process by eliminating surprises once the negotiation is well underway. 

There are a wide variety of home inspection companies that offer dramatically different levels of service.  Certain home inspectors seek to offer the absolute lowest prices.  They typically accomplish this since they are poorly trained, and by performing perfunctory inspections that are based on mere observations, rather than investigations.  The end result is often a very disappointed client who has spent money, but received little in return. 

Before you select your home inspection company, be sure they are of reputable quality with a core focus of providing an in depth investigation of a home.  This will ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of all facets of the house.  Of course, each and every home has at least some small amount of defects. A good inspector distinguishes between major versus minor repairs, and helps inform the decision of whether a house is right for a particular buyer.    As a home owner, these key distinctions are equally relevant and appreciated. 

Methods for identifying a good home inspection company include:

1. ·         Asking friends and family members for a referral
2. ·         Search engines such as Google/Bing will list home inspectors in your local area
3. ·         Discussing with your real estate agent
4. ·         Most local banks could help you with a list of recommended home inspectors

It is imperative to complete detailed research on several of your local home inspection companies. Feel free to call the companies and ask what distinguishes them from the competition.  You can then select the company that best suits your needs.

Homes bought without Inspection

If you have identified a potential new home, and plan on submitting an offer, be sure to carefully assess the status and quality of the home.  Certain home sellers have completed a detailed home inspection prior to listing their property for sale.  In those rare instances, you may feel comfortable relying on the report based on the quality of the inspection company.  

Companies such as Symmetrize Home Inspection complete a thorough inspection in an unbiased fashion, and such reports are trustworthy.

In most cases, the home has not been inspected prior to listing.  When that happens, you, as the buyer, should not hesitate before contacting a reputable home inspection company.  Completing a detailed home inspection is imperative prior to closing on the purchase. 

The home inspection report is very valuable as it clearly conveys the current condition of the home, and identifies any issues you should be aware of prior to closing the purchase.

 

Unfortunately, many home buyers do not opt for a home inspection since they view it as just another expense associated with buying a home.  Often, these buyers already feel financially stretched by the home buying process and they therefore take every opportunity to save money.  Such a strategy represents the classic “penny wise, pound foolish” since misunderstanding the quality and state of a home can result in dramatic unforeseen costs and heartache upon taking possession.

A good home inspection pays for itself.  First, there is the comfort in knowing that you buy a house with your eyes wide open.  Current problems are identified and the repair costs can be incorporated into your offer price.  Moreover, there is the peace of mind associated with moving your family into a home that has been thoroughly investigated for safety-related issues.  Taken together, these two benefits are invaluable!

When deciding upon your home inspection, remember the following:

·         Your home inspection should be conducted by a qualified home inspector, one who is associated with a reputable company in the industry. 

·         Seek referrals from friends or family who have recently bought homes.

·         Make sure you are present during the inspection.

·         Ask your home inspector any questions you may have.  A good home inspector is always interested in providing feedback to their clients.

·         Read through your report carefully!  There is no substitute for a well-informed buyer.

·         All homes have minor issues that have to be addressed.  Recognize that as fact when buying a home, especially an older home.

·         Homes are constantly in a state of flux.  

Remember that your home inspection is conducted at a point in time.  Things can change.  A dramatic storm can cause problems that did not exist at the time of inspection.  Unfortunately, even a great home inspector cannot see into the future!

Importance of performing a home inspection prior to buying a condominium

If you are in the process of buying a condominium, you should definitely plan to perform a thorough home inspection prior to sealing the deal.  New condo buyers often believe there is nothing they can do about problems in a building.  Nothing could be further from the truth. Overlooking easily identifiable problems can result in regret, especially if the entire cost falls on you.

A comprehensive condo home inspection is vital to making a good decision and spending your money responsibly. Before you choose to buy a condo and hire a home inspector, walk through the property with your own checklist.

Like any other home inspection, you'll want to know what it includes:

• ü  heating and central air conditioning systems
• ü  interior plumbing
• ü  electrical systems
• ü  the roof
• ü  visible insulation
• ü  walls, ceilings
• ü  floors
• ü  windows
• ü  foundation
• ü  appliances

A qualified Home Inspector will provide you with accurate and detailed information regarding the condition of the condo and its major systems, which will include some or all of the above items. A Home Inspector will also review the common elements of the condo. This is to ensure that the maintenance has been satisfactory and to inform the condo buyer about any major repairs/replacements that may require attention in the future.

Although the condominium association may be responsible for the repair and maintenance of all common and limited common areas of the condominium association; it is still in the buyer’s financial interest to be informed of possible problems that may result in a substantial building-wide assessment.

It is vital to be present during the home inspection process. Your investment of time during the inspection could prevent potential problems in the future. Being educated about your condo, and its future maintenance requirements, is one of the most valuable components of a home inspection.

A condominium is a building like any home, and it has repair and maintenance requirements. Although condominium apartments may be smaller than a residential home, it does not make the inspection any less important. 

With the recent dramatic increase in condo prices, a home inspection will always be worth the investment.

Top Home Inspection blunders

Top Home Inspection blunders

Getting your home inspected is one of the most vital steps you can take to ensure your new home is everything you expect à a high quality structure, safe for your family, and a compelling long-term investment.

Unfortunately, many people do not fully comprehend the mechanics of a home inspection OR what they are required to do to get the most out of it. A big mistake with this process can result in time intensive and costly repairs. Read more to find out what home inspectors feel are the five biggest mistakes home buyers make during the home inspection.

Avoiding an inspection since the home is “new”

It has been observed that even expert homebuyers sometimes make this costly mistake. Their assumption is that by clearing all local codes and ordinances, a home must be in good shape. However, not all home builders are of equal quality. Some take shortcuts to boost their profits at the expense of the future occupants. It requires a thorough home inspection to identify potential problems with the foundation or structure.

Just because the home has passed its code inspection, do not assume that the builder or the contractors have completed all the necessary work. Your home inspector can detect potential problems and alert you to any potentially costly future work.

Choosing a “wrong” home inspector

When choosing a home inspector, you're actually selecting a professional who is qualified to give your home a top-to-bottom checkup. Therefore, it is vital to go with someone who is knowledgeable, detail-oriented, professional and reliable. First-time buyers often make the mistake of selecting the least expensive home inspection company. Unfortunately, such “low cost” inspectors often lack the resources and experience to thoroughly investigate your future home.

It is important to ask the home inspection company about the licensing, credentials, and experience of the home inspectors who will be inspecting your home. This is not a decision to be taken lightly!

Not being “present” during the inspection

Though the home inspection report may provide you with detailed information about your home, it can never replicate the experience of partaking in the inspection or interacting with the inspector. The face-to-face interaction is beneficial since it allows you to ask questions that arise as you walk the home.

 

Ignoring the inspector's recommendations

 

Many buyers do not follow-up on the home inspector’s recommendation(s) regarding the property. People may fall in love with the home, and avoid confronting the seller about their concerns. Doing so may result in a very expensive repair, and a bad case of buyer’s remorse.

It is imperative to pay attention to the home inspector’s recommendations and solicit a thorough estimate of necessary repairs.

Expecting “too much” from the home inspector

Even a professional and experienced home inspector cannot predict the condition of your home in the long-term. The inspector can point out the current problems and potentially identify certain future issues that may eventually arise. Regardless, certain problems are unidentifiable. For example, it is impossible to predict future weather that could impact the quality of the roof.

It is important to remember that a home inspector is hired by to comprehensively review the property in question. The inspector provides you with the report based on the current condition of the home à clairvoyance is not part of the job description!

Home Inspection for Owners

A home is a valuable asset and likely the most significant financial investment of your life. Purchasing a home is a huge stepping stone in one’s life as it is a great achievement. Owning a home brings great joy and pride to the owner.

Generally, homeowners are not experts in features of home construction, maintenance and repairs.  However, during the course of time there are many areas of the home that will require attention. Problems are more common for first time home owners as they don’t have experience with typical home repairs.

A home inspection is very important and should be completed every few years to ensure that the home is habitable and safe. Hire a home inspector to get a complete inspection of the property. They are skilled and qualified at finding problems so that you know the current status of your home’s condition. Every home purchase, including those newly constructed, should include a complete home inspection.

What should every home owner do?

As a home owner, you plan to protect your home investment. There are important things you need to know about a good home inspection. Many home owners do not get home inspections done regularly after their purchase. As a home owner, it is important to realize that over a period of years, various factors start affecting the condition of the home.

To keep your home in optimal condition, it is vital to remember that a home inspection is important to protect your investment.

It is during the home inspection process that a home owner gets to know

•  the degree of upgrade or repairs the home may require
•  identify the need for repairs before they become even more costly
•  need to correct builder oversights, if any.

Points to note:

1.  Hire a home inspector from a reputable and professional home inspection company.
2.  A professional home inspector will take you around your home pointing out defects and indicating areas that will require future maintenance. The Home Inspector will also inform you on where the mains are located and shutoffs for electrical, plumbing, etc.
3.  During a home inspection, be present and grab the opportunity to educate yourself about the systems and features of your home.

It is important for the home owner to know the need for maintenance to keep the home in tip top shape. Timely inspection and repairing of problems saves growing costs of repairs as the problems could multiply if ignored for years.

For more details about home inspection of your property, please visit www.symmetrize.com

Sellers Home Inspection

Although not yet commonplace, it is very wise for a Seller to complete a comprehensive home inspection prior to listing the home on the market. The inspection helps to identify issues that should be addressed prior to listing, and therefore refines the value of the home. Whether the issues are corrected by the Seller or not; the home inspection allows both parties to approach the negotiation with confidence and a sense of symmetric information.

If you are considering offering your home for sale, it is wise to invest in a certified home inspection soon.

The pre-inspection of a home is an excellent tool to help sell your property faster. After the inspection, the seller will be aware of the shortcomings and positive features of the home. Home sellers can then set a realistic price and refrain from overpricing that would delay a sale.

A thorough home inspection is a foreseeable reality of the real estate industry today. Buyers want to know exactly what they are paying for. This is why it is helpful to get a head start by employing a pre-listing home inspection company. A qualified home inspector will inform you of the “problem” areas of the house. This works to your advantage as you can evaluate the price of your home better.

Here is a list of advantages for a seller’s home inspection:

• Assess and evaluate the problem areas after an inspection before a buyer can raise doubts
• Armed with a home inspection report when meeting with a potential buyer, shows thoroughness, confidence and sincerity on the part of the Seller
• Negotiating repairs can be avoided if the seller can take care of them before interacting with the buyer
• An inspected home should therefore command a premium in the market

A seller’s home inspection will highlight problem areas ranging from safety risks to property damage. It gives you the flexibility and time to hire the right contractors to attend to any necessary repairs.

A pre-listing home inspection also lets you assess your property in a method similar to that of a prospective buyer. This information is instrumental in determining the actual market value of your property. The home inspection report also empowers you with a great deal of advantage during price negotiations.

Sellers can also choose a few repairs that require immediate attention, to factor in price adjustment to reflect the findings. They could also opt to offer the home inspection report as a part of the Buyers disclosures. By doing so, prospective buyers are prepared for the actual condition of the home. This lowers the chances of buyers backing out of a deal.

With the comprehensive and detailed report that you receive at the end of your home inspection, you can answer any query or concerns regarding your property with prospective buyers. Today, buyers may even waive a home inspection after checking that a pre-listing home inspection was already done by the seller.

For more details about home inspection before selling your property, please visit www.symmetrize.com.

Buyers Home Inspection

If you are reading this blog, then you must have taken at least a first step towards purchasing a new home. You may be very close to making an offer on a new home for you and your family. However, before you jump in with both feet, you need to be sure the home is adequately inspected.  Such an inspection will offer you a detailed home inspection report, and provide excellent insight into the quality of the home.

The results of a high quality home inspection are a key component to the sale of a home since (i) it provides confidence to the buyers; (ii) banks and mortgage companies rely on the findings; and (iii) the purchase contract may reference the findings from the home inspection. Clearly, inspecting the physical condition of a home is a very important aspect of the home-buying process.

A qualified home inspector performs the home inspection using a detailed checklist to ensure every aspect of the home and the property is thoroughly investigated. It is beneficial to cross check your home inspection report with that provided by the seller to ensure nothing has been missed.

Structural Inspection

 It is vital for the home to be structurally solid and safe. Structural features inspected include roofing, floors, attic, walls, ceilings, columns, basement, and foundation. The Home Inspector seeks to identify any sloping or cracking that could result in longer-term issues.

Roofing

It is imperative for the inspection report to confirm that the roof is free of leaks since any water seepage can cascade into significant problems.

External features of the home

The inspection would cover the patio, deck, exterior windows, and doors etc. The garage is also checked as a part exterior inspection. Water drains are tested for proper functioning.

HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Inspection

Air conditioning, heating, plumbing and electrical are examined for proper performance. The inspector checks all the utilities for the proper installation and function. This includes vent systems, water and waste drainage, water system, etc. Home inspectors examine the proper functioning of appliances to check for plumbing or electrical issues. The home inspection focuses on key safety issues, with an emphasis on the electrical components.

Interior Inspection

The interior home inspection covers ceilings, floors, walls, and stairs. Every aspect of the interior is evaluated, and relevant findings are outlined in the inspection report.

Insulation and Ventilation Inspection

The home inspection includes a check of ventilation in the kitchen, bathroom, and attic. Home inspectors check the foundation and subfloor for any issues. Every home is checked for possible problems based on the geographical location.

A buyer must recognize that the home inspection will identify meaningful issues with the home – issues that a buyer would like to be aware of. At the same time, the home inspection cannot guarantee that there will be no repairs in the future. All homes require ongoing maintenance for minor issues, and it is not the goal of a home inspector to outline each potential minor issue.

If the home inspection reports that the house is in generally good condition, the buyer will have much greater confidence in the attractiveness of the purchase.

Also, if the inspection identifies certain issues — such as electrical or plumbing damage/problems, etc. — the buyer can negotiate with the seller to pay for necessary fixes OR appropriately adjust the purchase price.

For detailed information on all aspects of home inspection, visit www.symmetrize.com.

Importance of Home Inspections

Home inspections are important as they enable a buyer to learn about the physical attributes of the home. In almost all instances, homes are sold in less than perfect condition. Therefore, a buyer needs to be informed about the anticipated costs associated with maintaining the home post-closing. As a result, the home inspection is a significant phase of the home buying process. An accredited and experienced home inspector investigates the home and writes up the inspection report after the inspection is completed. This detailed document becomes a very important tool in the real estate transaction process.

A home inspection typically includes an examination of the entire house including:

• Foundation and structural integrity
• Doors and windows
• Roof and exterior walls
• Plumbing
• Electrical components
• Heating and air conditioning systems
• Surrounding vegetation of the home & more…

Why Home Inspection for Sellers:

It is good to have an inspection done before a home is put on the market.

Complete repairs - Sellers can address repair issues before placing the home on the market. This can significantly increase the visual appeal of a home.

Transparent dealings – A home inspection report available to buyers communicates confidence in the quality of the home, and signals that the seller has nothing to hide.

Increased valuation – These steps result in a higher selling price, and a smoother sales process where surprises are limited and buyers bud with confidence.

Why Home Inspection for Buyers:

If a Symmetrize home inspection report is not completed by the Seller, a Buyer should pursue an inspection to learn about potential problems and upcoming maintenance expenses associated with the home.

Assurance - Go into this purchase with eyes wide open about the quality of the home.

Maintenance - Buyers can learn more about the future upkeep and maintenance requirements.

Value - If the home inspection report identifies problems, the buyer can negotiate for a price that accurately reflects the value of the home.

The typical cost of an inspection varies depending on the area, size of the home, and services provided by the home inspection company. As with most services, there is a strong element of getting what you pay for. Selecting the lowest priced inspector can often result in problems down the road.

Hire a licensed home inspection professional to represent your best interests–whether you are a buyer, seller or owner – to ensure the home is safe for you and your family, and that you are fully informed about major upcoming expenses.

Symmetrize specializes in residential property inspection services. Symmetrize Home Inspectors are leaders in the industry, therefore the company confidently provides a 100% Home Inspection Satisfaction Guarantee…. contact us with any questions at info@symmetrize.com