You have found the home of your dreams, negotiated with the seller and are under contract. Now what? How do you make sure your home will stand the test of time?
After going under contract, you will want to hire a home inspector. A home inspector is like the general doctor for your home. They come into the home you are purchasing and inspect the structure, mechanical systems and everything in between. When hiring an inspector make sure they are a licensed, professional inspector. Take time to do some research online and look at their reviews. Your realtor or lender might also be able to make some suggestions of inspectors in the area.
Next is Inspection Day! On inspection day we recommend that you plan to be there along with your buyer’s agent. It is a great opportunity to learn all about the home that you are purchasing and the systems within it. You will want to follow along with the inspector as they move from room to room in the house. Don’t feel like you are in the way or that you must remember everything that the inspector says. Part of what inspector does is explain what they find to you throughout the inspection but also will give you a final report including pictures.
What kind of things is a home inspector looking at? The following list are areas of the home that the inspector will inspect.
- Plumbing
- Heating
- Air Conditioning
- Appliances
- Roof
- Windows
- Electrical
- Foundation
- Exterior
- Basement
- And so much more…
While an inspector will bring many items to your attention for the home, they will also evaluate the concern. A couple of the categories the concern might fall into are: safety concern, budget to replace in the future, for-your-information. Once you receive the report, look through the report from the inspector and together with your Realtor evaluate what the inspector found. Together you can decide what if any items need to be addressed before settlement. Your Realtor will use your inspection report to negotiate with the seller for any major concerns with the home.
Plan to keep a copy of your inspection report handy for once you are moved into your home. This report is helpful in giving you maintenance tips to care for your home’s systems. It is also a great item to resort back to when thinking about renovations or handy-man projects around your home.
Contact Team Longenecker with any questions or if you would like to start the process of buying or selling a home.
