A home inspection can be a confusing process for both first time home buyers and experienced ones. Inspections are detailed and it is hard when you are handed several pages of paperwork after your inspection and you must decipher what is valuable information. It is good idea to take a proactive approach to a home inspection and learn what are the important parts of an inspection and which part are not quite as vital to the life of the house you are buying. Whether this is your tenth time buying a house or first, gaining some information about what to look for on an inspection report is a valuable skill. Also, remember to utilize the knowledge of your Capitol Hill Real Estate Agent. A real estate agent has been through the process of countless home inspections and they can provide you with invaluable information.
The 5 Things to Know About Home Inspections
The first place you want to look is the roof. An inspector will first look for evidence of leaks resulting from a damaged roof. If they have determined there are no leaks, they will check for damage to the roof which could cause future problems and leakage. Damage to a roof can include missing shingles, sagging, and worn areas. You want to make sure any areas covered by things such as vegetation are uncovered and examined. You may think this not important, but vegetation increases the likelihood of mold over time.
Next, the inspection will uncover potential problems in a foundation. The major focus when looking at a foundation are visible cracks. These cracks can indicate the foundation is not adequate to support the structure. If cracks are discovered, then it may be necessary to call in a contractor. A contractor who specializes in foundations has more experience. They will know how to determine the extent of the damage and how much it will cost to repair it.
Another area of the home that can cause a lot of grief if left uninspected is the plumbing. Believe it or not, leaking pipes are not the only plumbing that needs to be checked. A good inspector will check for good water pressure, water damage, and they will assure you as to whether the hot water heater is in good working condition.
It is necessary to be mindful of a home’s infrastructure which includes the heating and cooling system as well as the electrical circuitry. When it comes to cooling and heating systems, you will want to know whether the thermostat, ventilation, and furnace are working properly. As far as the electrical wiring throughout the house, you need to be aware of any issues with lighting fixtures, outlets, and the circuit breakers need to be tested.
Use a Capitol Hill Real Estate Agent for Important Home Decisions
Perhaps one of the most difficult aspect of a home inspection is when you find out the home you are so excited to buy has a lot of problems. You are then faced with whether to buy the home or walk away. If you decide to continue with buying the home, there may need to be negotiations on the price or the owner may have to agree to make repairs or give you money to do so yourself. This is not an easy decision and it is a good idea to get a great deal of advice from those experienced with home buying. This is why your Capitol Hill Real Estate Agent is an excellent resource when buying a home.
Here is a quick video with one of my home inspectors James From Sound View Home Inspection. Comment below if you have any thoughts or questions…
