Home inspection what is done

A home inspector goes through a very thorough checklist. They look at literally everything. Prepare for the inspection to avoid unnecessary blemishes on the report. Traditionally, buyers arrange the home inspection process. However, some homeowners choose to have an inspector come in before they list the house for sale. A pre-listing inspection could make the whole sales process faster and easier for everyone involved.

According to Buell, more and more sellers have opted for a pre-listing inspection in the past five years than they used to because they can catch things early on that might create roadblocks and delays later. If you choose to do a pre-inspection, Buell suggests putting the report out on the table when buyers come through. Day typically suggests that clients with older homes get a pre-listing inspection. Pre-listing inspections can take away the stressful element of surprise for the homeowner.

It also helps prevent offer renegotiations, extensive buyer repair requests, and the possibility of buyers walking away while already in contract. If a seller gets a pre-inspection, they are legally required to disclose the home inspection report to buyers. After the home inspection, the buyer and seller can either negotiate the contract or part ways completely. The seller will have to put the house back on the market.

When a house goes under contract, the MLS will show that it was a pending sale or under contract. Depending on the terms of the contract between the buyer and seller, the buyer may either request the seller to do the necessary health and safety repairs or request a credit from the seller so the buyer can do the repairs themselves.

The seller most likely will have to foot the bill for whatever turned up as a health or safety issue in the inspection. Wolfe adds that this is where a good real estate agent comes in handy. The seller can bring in their own experts to confirm the issues that the inspector found. In some situations, the home inspector could be wrong about the status of home mechanisms and components. I had my electrician go out there and look at it and said there was nothing wrong with it, and that the parts are still readily available and it could last another years.

We were able to squash that problem just by having our own experts. But if there are no other offers and you go into escrow, then the seller may want to think about accommodating some of the things that come up. Home inspections are meant to keep homeowners safe. If you get a pre-listing inspection, you can prepare yourself for repair requests from buyers. However, you will be legally required to disclose the findings of the report to buyers, which may prove to be detrimental.

A good real estate agent will have trusted experts in their corner, ready to come in and confirm or deny inspectors findings. They will also provide you with the best advice depending on the current real estate market, the condition of your house, and your financial needs. Seller Resources. What is a Home Inspection? What Happens During a Home Inspection? Have them organized and ready to show to inspectors and buyers. For example: chimney sweeped, furnace serviced, filters changed in HVAC, water heater serviced, etc.

Clear out clutter in spaces like basement, attic, garage, and crawl spaces. Inspectors will need to get in there to check for moisture or damage. Make sure the inspector has access to the electrical panel, furnace, and water heater. Lock up pets while the inspector walks through. A good inspector will address these issues in the report you pay for. Use this checklist to help figure out what to look for, both ahead of time and in the final report. Foundation: Look at the base of the walls and the ceilings in each room.

Are there obvious cracks or apparent shifts in the foundation? Do the same around the outside. Are there any trees encroaching on the foundation? Lot: Does the drainage appear to be away from the house? Are there any obvious soggy areas? Exterior: Does the house look like it will need repairs or repainting soon? Are gutters and downspouts firmly attached? Are there loose boards or dangling wires? Is there asbestos in the exterior material, which would require added costs if it needed to be repaired or replaced?

Attic: How does the interior of the roof structure look? Are there any signs of leaks? Basement: Is there dampness? Adequate insulation? Electrical: Do the switches work? Are there any obvious malfunctions? Have the outlets been grounded? Is the panel updated and expandable for additional appliances or a potential remodel? Plumbing: Any unusual noises or malfunctions? Has the sewer line been scoped to check for potential cracks? Appliances: If these are included, what is the age and condition of the stove, dishwasher or refrigerator?

How old is the furnace? If the system has been converted, are the old systems or tanks still in place? Odor: Does the home smell? Can you detect what it might be and whether it could be fixed?

Beware of musty odors which could signal a wet basement. If they disclosed that they had a leaky window replaced or repaired, make sure that gets extra attention from your inspector. Disclosure requirements vary by state and sometimes local jurisdictions, so ask your real estate agent if you have any questions about what is included.

One thing to look for is whether any unpermitted work has been done. If so, you could be on the hook for bringing the house up to code should you ever remodel. During this time, follow along as much as you can.