Inspections
If your new car turns out to be a lemon, not only is it a headache,
but it could cost considerable money to set things right. If your
dream home turns out to be a nightmare, you could be facing huge
expenses -- money you may not have after making the biggest single
purchase in your life.
Why do people take a mechanic for a test drive before buying a used
car, but spend much, much more on a home based only on a quick tour?
One reason may be that, until recently, it hasn't been all that easy
to find a knowledgeable professional who can make a detailed assessment
of each of the systems and components that can go wrong in a house. A
carpenter moonlighting as an inspector would probably check all the
structural elements but walk right past a deficient furnace or a
soon-to-be-leaking basement caused by improper grading.
Professional home inspection, backed by a national association, is an
industry that has become increasingly involved in residential real
estate transactions over the past few years.
So how do you find a professional home inspector to help you make
an informed decision prior to buying? Ask your RE/MAX agent for
recommendations. You may only buy one house in your lifetime, but
RE/MAX agents are involved in home purchases every day and come to
know who does a competent and professional job. Ask your prospective
home inspector for references from recent clients. Ensure the
inspector is a member of a reputable industry association. In
addition, ensure the inspector carries errors and omissions insurance.
Not only does this give you an extra level of protection in case of
future problems, it is also a test for good inspectors. (Those without
specialized training either cannot obtain the insurance or can't afford
it because the rates are higher for those with lower credentials.)
Finally, to avoid the possibility of conflict of interest, avoid any
inspector who offers to do necessary repairs, or who is involved in
any way in real estate or home repair. Professional home inspectors
stick to inspections.
Be sure your home is inspected for termites, radon, lead paint,
asbestos, Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation (UFFI) and other
hazards. Find out if your lending institution has any specific
tests it requires before it will approve your mortgage.
to you.