You wouldn’t buy a used car without having a good mechanic check it out. Yet that is exactly what many buyers do when purchasing a home, even though a home is the largest investment they will probably ever make.

A professional home inspection is something you MUST do, whether you are buying an existing home or a new one. An inspection is an opportunity to have an expert look closely at the property you are considering purchasing and getting both an oral and written opinion as to its condition. A good inspector will give you an unbiased opinion of a home’s overall condition and identify any structural or mechanical issues.

Always make sure the report will be done by a professional. Not only should you never skip an inspection, but also you should go along with the inspector during inspection. This gives you a chance to ask questions about the property and get answers that are not biased. In addition, the oral comments are typically more revealing and detailed than what you will find on the written report. Once the inspection is complete, you should review the report carefully.

• Deferred maintenance items
• Structural problems
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing systems
• Heating and cooling systems
• Mechanical systems
• Roofing
• Pools and Spas
• Drainage problems
• Cosmetic issues

You have to demand an inspection when you present your offer. It must be written in as a contingency; if you do not approve the inspection report, then you don't buy. Most real estate contracts automatically provide an inspection contingency.

For more information on home inspections, please contact Carol today at 803-781-3535.