If you have ever watched a court television show where the plaintiff is suing a car dealer or individual for having purchased a defective car, you know that unless specific promises and guarantees are made, the sale is considered an “as-is” sale. Unless the car had been inspected prior to purchase, the plaintiff will most likely lose. The purchase of a car is considered the second largest purchase you will make in your lifetime. Why then would you not pay a nominal fee to have your future home inspected prior to purchase? Once your offer is accepted, you have 17 days to have the home inspection completed.
According to Gary Lagana, an inspector with 35 years’ experience, just driving by the property could reveal red-flags so serious that you might consider moving on to the next home on your list. Does the roof look like it is in poor condition and might need replacing? A roof replacement could cost up to $6,000. Do you see puddles of standing water, large cracks in the cement or dark spots near the home’s base or in areas close to roof? The puddle might indicate poor drainage. The stained areas could reveal plumbing or another type of water damage. Should you see peeling paint and flaking stucco, repair costs could run into the thousands. Why waste your time viewing the inside when the outside already has given you a good indication that the home has not been well cared for.
Don’t accept just any inspector or the one that your REALTOR© uses without asking questions. It is your right to ask about the inspector’s experience. If you are purchasing an older home, seek out an inspector that specializes in inspections of older homes. If your home has a pool, hire an inspector to evaluate its condition. Ask if the inspector is qualified to do mold testing.
You should set aside some time to be present during the inspection to ask questions about conditions that may be of concern. When making ANY purchase, remember the words caveat emptor (let the buyer beware). Having a home inspection will give you peace of mind as you go forward in the purchase process and, you will be equipped with the information you and REALTOR© needs to either remedy critical problems or walk away from the deal if necessary.
Lorraine Best is the Broker/Owner of BEST IN CLASS REALTY. She may be reached for questions or further information at Lorraine@LorraineBest.com or (951) 233-6334.