THE HOME INSPECTION . . .
As a home buyer it will be up to you to ask for, and pay for an inspection of your new home.
Requesting the services of a home inspector is not an area to "go cheap on expense". Check the qualifications and experience of the inspector. Ask for recommendations of the most qualified, experienced, reliable company available. Get referrals from your professional at Prudential Biros Real Estate or from friends who have purchased a home in the past two years.
Go through the house with the inspector. Ask questions and have him explain his comments if they are vague or represent information with which you are not familiar. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn about the structural condition and operating systems of your new home. If it is a previously owned home you are buying, keep in mind that some ?wear and tear? should be expected. If the house is relatively new don?t take for it granted that there are no hidden problems and that you don?t need a thorough inspection. Nothing could be further from the truth! Even newly constructed homes that pass the mandated code inspections are not guaranteed to be free of defects.
Some blemishes are truly cosmetic. Most houses settle over the years and small cracks appear in the walls. Overlook decorating schemes that you find unattractive or not your taste. Other blemishes are not cosmetic and should not ?come with the territory?. They are not "wear and tear" but rather potentially costly repair problems you should know about.
Make sure all windows operate easily. Check the fit of the doors as well as the condition of each floor and countertop surfaces. Check all the bathrooms with the same care. Look at the tub surround and wall tile. Is there any evidence of current or past water damage? In the attic and basement, look for discoloration due to water penetration. If you see something you question, ask the inspector and if his analysis indicates a problem, make sure it gets into the report.
Be sure that you fully understand the electrical capacity of the house before closing. If you want to add air conditioning or other high amp equipment you will want to know if these will require upgrading the electrical service into the house. During the inspection we at Prudential Biros Real Estate suggest that you use the Remodeling & Home Improvement Worksheets below and carry a notebook with questions that you have about the house. Be prepared for a large learning experience, but one that will pay huge dividends in understanding your new home and planning for your future.