What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is an objective examination of a
house, including structure, mechanical systems, and appliances. The purpose
of the inspection is to determine that the house is in the condition you believe
it to be and there is nothing that will interfere with your use and enjoyment
of it. The inspection report does not indicate whether or not the house is
a good value. It is simply an objective report of its condition.
In addition to the general inspection, the home buyer may want or be required
to arrange for a termite inspection, an examination of the septic system,
swimming pool or oil tank, or tests for water potability radon or lead paint
in an older home. There are often additional charges for these specialized
tests.
Property Condition Disclosure Is Not The Same
Most homes marketed by Coldwell Banker offer a property disclosure provided
by the homeowner. This report details the owner's experience with the house
and what they know about it condition since they have owned it. This is a
very valuable service to help evaluate a house that is being considered, but
it does not take the place of an objective home inspection.
Go With The Inspector
A home inspector will examine the house from the roof to the foundation, looking
for structural abnormalities or deterioration. The inspector will turn on
all the mechanical systems, and appliances to see they are working properly.
The walls and basement will be checked for any signs of water damage. After
the house has been inspected from top to bottom, the inspector should provide
a written report of the inspection's findings.
It is a good idea for the homebuyer to go with the inspector when the examination
is conducted. It helps to keep the inspection report in perspective if the
homebuyer asks questions about the results of the inspection. It's also a
good time to learn about the workings of the new house. The inspector can
show important features such as shut off valves for water and gas mains and
tell how long a furnace or roof should last.
What If Something Is Wrong?
On occasion, an inspector finds something that was not apparent to the home
buyer when they looked at the house, but that needs to be fixed before they
can really enjoy it. In that case, they will probably re-open negotiations
with the seller to either fix the problem or make an adjustment in the price
of the house. Sometimes a mortgage lender will require that certain repairs
be made before they will approve a mortgage.
Warranty Program Can Ease the Home Buyer's Mind
A home inspection can't predict what will go wrong in a house. That's why
many homeowners are adding value to their house with the Coldwell Banker Best
Buyer Home Protection Plan, underwritten by AON Home Warranty. This service
insures appliances and mechanical systems for the entire time a house is on
the market, and for one year after it is sold. Buyers prefer houses covered
by a warranty, knowing they are insured for major repairs at a time when they
can least afford expensive surprises.
For more information on home inspections and the Home Protection Plan contact
our Concierge™ department at 800-353-9949
