Buying a House Series #8 – A Thorough Home Inspection is a Crucial Step To Buying a Home!

So you fixed your credit score, saved enough for a down payment, know what you can afford, selected a real estate agent, and found a home you like, made an offer that the seller accepted, and had the house appraised! That’s a bunch of work but now it is time for a detailed inspection by a professional home inspector to get all the granular details about the house and the equipment inside it. This “Buying a House Series” is made with years of experience on the best way to get your ducks in a row so you can get a loan and find the home you want at the price you want. Use the following the tips below to make the process much smoother on you…

Make Sure to Hire a Well Recommended, Experienced Home Inspector

There are a lot of home inspectors to choose from but you don’t want to skimp the budget when choosing one. This is a VERY important step in your home buying process. It’s easy to become and act as a home inspector so a bunch of people try their hand at it. Make sure you get a full time, well connected professional for your home inspection.

Check To Make Sure They Can Inspect a Home in Your Area

Most states require a home inspector to have a license and insurance.  If they don’t have one of these or either, run away as fast as you can! Check to see if they are in a professional organization for their industry like the National Association of Home Inspectors. Ask your real estate agent who they suggest?  They know the best inspectors and have your best interest at heart.

Be Present During the Inspection

Yes, you’ll be given a report after the inspection, but don’t you want to learn about all of the inner workings of your potential new home. You’ll probably never get this opportunity again. It will allow you to talk through problems while it’s fresh in the inspector’s mind and will allow them to show you things. It’s also just human nature for an inspector to go the extra mile for you while you are present. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Problems You Find Are Probably Fixable, So Don’t Freak Out!

Most problems that you find on a home inspection can be repaired. It’s not a new home, in most cases, and their are bound to be some issues. Small things you find can be easily fixed. Large things like foundation or water problems can also be fixed or become ways to bargain for an even lower price on the home so you can get the work done yourself or have them get the work done before you move in. Most offers are contingent on a successful inspection.

The Seller Doesn’t HAVE TO Fix The Problems You Find 

Sometimes the seller doesn’t want to fix the problems and then you need to decide if you’re willing to fix them after you move in or negotiate a low price on the home to offset these expenses. If it’s a large and serious issue and they don’t want to your can’t afford to fix the problem then you need to either move on to another home or work it out. Make sure to take your heart out of this decision and consult with your home inspector so you know the potential financial ramifications handling this problem on your own after the sale.

Once you’re through the Home Inspection, you’ll be on to locking in the Terms of Your New Loan…

Buying a House Series Posts

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Tom Reese has 20+ years experience in helping his clients sell their homes for a price that sells and makes them a profit. Tom has helped his clients buy and sell property in every neighborhood in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati.

About Tom Reese

Helping my clients attain their dreams has been the foundation of my success. With my strong attention to customer service, I have earned my clients continued support and referrals. Put my enthusiasm and dedication to work for you!

Call Tom anytime at (859) 393-1293