The home-buying process can feel confusing and overwhelming. While purchasing a house can be intimidating, a thorough home inspection is essential for making an informed decision about the property. To help, here are a few home inspection FAQs. These are things homebuyers want to know when ordering an inspection of a new house.
FAQ: What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a visual evaluation of a property’s condition conducted by a professional inspector. The inspector examines the property’s structure and systems, such as plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, appliances, windows and doors, safety features (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors), exterior features (roofing, siding), foundation and basement/crawlspace. They may also inspect for pests or evidence of past infestation by termites or carpenter ants. The inspector will then provide the buyer with a detailed report of their findings that outlines defects and areas of concern.
Who Pays for the Inspection?
Typically the buyer pays for the home inspection; however, this varies from state to state and also depends on your real estate contract. It is important to discuss who pays for the assessment with your agent beforehand so there are no surprises.
When hiring a home inspector, talk to your real estate agent and ask friends, coworkers, and family members to recommend an inspector they trust. Choose a professional with good reviews who is known to be thorough.
How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
The length of time needed for the inspection will depend on factors such as the square footage, age, and condition of the property. On average, completing the walk-through takes between two and four hours.
Talk to your inspector to learn when and how you’ll receive the inspection findings. Afterward, your inspector will provide a comprehensive report – usually within 24-48 hours – outlining issues and safety concerns they found during their review.
Home Inspection FAQs: Should I Order an Inspection?
When purchasing a house, it’s always a good idea to have the property evaluated by a trained and experienced professional. Even if you’re familiar with household systems and components, a qualified home inspector can provide information about the property you may have overlooked on your tour.
The inspection report provides valuable information that helps you, as the buyer, make a well-informed decision about your purchase.
For many buyers, navigating the home-buying process can feel daunting, even when ordering an inspection. Above are some of the most frequently asked questions about home inspections. A professional inspection is as essential as any other step in the buying process.
Phoenix Property Inspections provides inspections to customers in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties in California. Contact us to request our services.