How do I find a good, professional home inspector?
Look at 6 things: Above all else, try to get a referral from someone you trust. There’s nothing better than first-hand experience from a friend or family member. If not, make sure:
Archives: FAQs
What are the 5 major areas in every home and why do they make the difference between buying a dream home and buying a money pit?A4. AKA ‘The Bones’:
1. Foundation 2. Roof 3. Plumbing System 4. Electrical System 5. HVAC System These areas are responsible for killing 80% of most real estate deals.
What are the 3 things you NEVER want to overlook when inspecting a vacant or foreclosed home?
Make sure all the utilities are turned on and the pilots are lit. 1. The gas. For operating the water heater, furnace, and oven (if installed). The home inspector will not light pilots so make sure all pilots are lit on all appliances at least 24 hours before the inspection starts. Because of the moving … Read more
What’s the MOST important system in a vacant home?
The plumbing system. Why? For 4 reasons: 1. Water leaks. A home is 5 times more likely to incur water damage than fire damage. When a home becomes vacant and gets winterized (the drain lines are flushed and filled with anti-freeze), water and drain lines stop being used. So, when the water is turned back … Read more
Why can home inspections be such a mystery?
Communication. I remember when I first started in 2003. I had just left NYC and was ready for something new. When I arrived in Kansas City, I stumbled onto home inspections. It sounded fun, but I knew nothing about houses. So I remember thinking, “How is it possible to check everything?” I mean, there are … Read more
Is there any way I can prepare for the inspection?
Yes. This is important. Your home is an engineering feat full of systems, components, and areas you’re now responsible for it. 1. Have questions. Write them down and ask them before the inspection or at the end. 2. Attend the inspection, but don’t distract the inspector while he’s working. Instead, tour the home, take measurements, … Read more
Would you buy this home if you were me?
This is another question I can’t really answer for you. Your circumstances and tastes are different. Besides, the real question being asked is, “Did you find anything that would scare you away?” I can answer that particular question as long as you’re willing to agree that there are 5 major areas in a home: Those … Read more
Will you give a 1st time buyer any extra time or help?
Always. Buying a home is a big decision. You’re biting off alot of responsibility with maintenance, repairs, dues, payments, and all the details in between. But remember, you’re paying good money for a trained professional to find issues with the home. Disturbing or distracting them while they work slows them down, disrupts their focus, and … Read more
Can you tell me if this home is a good deal?
That’s a hard question to answer because there’s alot I don’t know about you or your situation. For example, These are about numbers. But there are still personal criteria for your family: The home inspection will help you understand what kind of condition the home is in so you can decide if it works for … Read more
I’m a first time buyer, but I don’t have a lot of money for an inspection. What options do I have?
You have a few good ones. 1) Our 5-Point Major-Items inspection. This bare-bones inspection checks the expensive areas of a home so you can quickly and with relatively little investment determine whether it’s a money pit or your dream home in disguise. It includes: It’s usually about 60 minutes long, includes an online digital report … Read more
