First Time Home Buyers-Questions About Inspections!

Questions about Inspections! by Georgia Bennett Henderson

1) Who needs an inspection? As a homebuyer looking to purchase a home, after your offer has been accepted you will typically have between 7-15 days (check your contract for that information!) to conduct home inspections. You typically will pay for these upon completion, and make sure you go with a trusted experienced inspector. We have several trustworthy, excellent inspectors that we like to work with!

2) What are the biggest things I should look for on the inspection report? The biggest things that you need to look for are things that are structurally important to the home, and any underlying issues that you might not have noticed at first glance. Ensure that no mold was found, that all windows and doors are structurally sound, and that all major systems and appliances are in good working order. Also, make sure you have an inspector who is able to inspect the roof and attic access to check the quality, age and structure of the roof.

3) Speaking of the roof, do I need a wind mitigation inspection report? Yes! Having a Wind Mit Report completed will make sure that the roof is thoroughly checked and will also provide you some discounts on your insurance for your new home. Make sure you get an inspector who is able to do both to save you some time and money, and also have your agent ask ahead of time to see if the previous owners had a wind mitigation inspection completed already!

4) What should I not worry about too much in an Inspection Report? It is the inspectors job to find all things possible that could affect the new homeowner. However, there will be many things that could show up on the home inspection report that should not make you worry. Small minor things that can be corrected after closing such as cosmetic touch ups, wall holes, normal wear and tear of a home, and more. No need to worry about baseboards that need repair, but cracked windows and areas that need sheetrock work should definitely be on your inspection repair requests list.

5) So what’s next? After your inspection has been completed and you have received the report, within the inspection time period based on your contract, your agent will need to assist you in writing up your repair requests to send to the cooperating agent and home owner. From there, you will all come to terms on what repairs will be completed. These will have to be within the repair limits which are also based on your contract. Make sure you go over those with your agent when writing up an initial offer or accepting a counter offer!

We would be honored to assist with you the home buying or selling process. Contact us with any questions that you have and let us show you what it means to be Livin’ Right!