Purchasing a home may be one of the most exciting and fulfilling things you do. For some, it can represent a form of status or the fact that you’ve “made it”. For others, it may be just another investment in their portfolio of accomplishments. And for those of you like me, my first home was a sense of security and stability for my family and me to grow and build memories. Whatever your goal is, wouldn’t you like to know the details of what you are investing in? A home inspection helps provide those details so you can make an informed decision on your purchase.
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual inspection that identifies the deficiencies and safety concerns of a property. The major components that are inspected are electrical, plumbing, structural (foundation, roof, walls, etc.), and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). In some areas of the country, appliances are also part of the inspection process. There are other optional systems that may be added to an inspection like swimming pools, landscape irrigation systems, private water wells, and private sewage disposal systems. Depending on your area and the inspection company you choose, some or all of these optional systems may be included in your inspection.
Why should you get an inspection?
Great question. Some buyers rely on their builder or the real estate agent to tell them about any and every issue with the property. And why wouldn’t they? Both are trusted entities and their sole purpose is to help clients find their dream home. For the most part, this is true. They are trusted entities but they may lack the full understanding, knowledge, or equipment needed to assess the entire home and all of the components. The same goes for the individual contractors who are working on each of their specialized components for the home. They are usually only concerned with their part of the project and that is it. That is where the inspector comes in. A home inspector's job is to look at all of the individual parts and put them together to provide the whole picture for the client. A home inspector is a generalized contractor who works for the client.
Do I need a home inspection to purchase the home?
The simple answer is no. Depending on where you live, the type of property you're purchasing, or your lender's preferences, you may or may not need a home inspection. Although, the benefits of having a home inspection, either before or after buying, can outweigh any concerns you may have about getting one. According to Porch, 86% of home inspections found something that needed to be fixed.
19.7% of home inspectors found a problem with the roof
18.7% found at least one issue with the home’s electrical system
18.4% found problems with the home’s windows
13.6% discovered issues with the home’s plumbing systems
12.2% found issues with the water heater
9.9% found issues with air conditioning
8.9% reported foundation issues/ cracks
The report provided to the client after the inspection is a great document to have. For those selling, it helps identify concerns with enough time to fix them before the property goes on the market. For those buying, the report holds negotiating power. It can also be used for future reference in case any components of the property change over time.
What should I expect if I hire Rook Home Inspections LLC?
As a Veteran-owned, one-person inspection company, I am fully committed to exceeding the client's expectations. From the inspection scheduling to the day I retire, I will be available not only to my clients, but also to their families, extended families, and friends. I enjoy doing the research necessary to gain more information and to stay at the forefront of new trends. Clients will get updates during the inspection process if they are unable to attend the walkthrough and a thorough report with photos, videos, and thermal imaging. I use the best and most advanced tools necessary to interpret the deficiencies found during an inspection so that my clients can be informed about their investments. Overall, I take pride in providing the best customer-centered services to each and every one of my clients.
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog. If you have any questions or are in need of a home inspector in or near Waco, Texas, Rook Home Inspections is here for you.
References
Porch. (n.d.). Home inspection leverage; how home inspections can be used to a buyer's advantage. Porch. https://porch.com/resource/home-inspection-leverage
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