Zack Finley of North American Services and Jennifer Klein discuss why a buyer should get a home inspection and pest, plus whatever other inspections a home may call for (pool, chimney, etc) … this is a major purchase and you want to make sure your investment is a wise one whether this is your first home, second or investment property – items that may not be readily seen by the average person’s eyes, that a trained inspector’s eye may catch. We can’t tell you how many times we have had an inspector save our buyers from a ton of grief and uncovered issues that the buyer may not want anything to do with … but also to contain fear with education of possible resolve.
Nothing is a perfect science at times with a home … but we do encourage you to explore the routes of doing your home inspection once you go into escrow on your (potentially) next home. A great inspector will look at the ins-and-outs of the home, check to see if items are to code, a roof might need a roofer to come out, and take a thorough look at the home (2-4 hours). It’s good for a buyer to be there at the end of the inspection to review with the inspector directly …
We do realize every inspector might observe or interpret items differently, so it’s imperative that you do your research and get referrals for a reputable inspector and/or inspection service.
A few other great tips:
- If it’s a bank owned or vacant home – make sure all utilities are on that the inspector will need … we remember this, but just an item that needs to be known.
- Some inspectors do get booked out in advance, don’t wait till the day before inspections – if you have a 7 or 10 inspection period, you better hop on it and coordinate with your agent for access to the home and realize it may take a day or two to get the inspection back (not always – some are same day).
- Don’t forget about pools, chimney and other inspections …
- To tie into the next “helpful tip” don’t forget your carbon monoxide detectors! We’re on the road to the appraisal, just remember the rules regarding CO detectors - If that owner (seller) is out of town, and you know the appraiser’s coming, do you want to pay for a re-visit because carbon monoxide detectors were forgotten? Quick sales and forgetful (often unintentionally) sellers may not have these items in the home.
North American Home Services
4617 Auburn Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95841
800-732-2847
http://www.natpc.com/contactus.html
Check out their site for sweet discounts to save on your next service!
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