HOME INSPECTION
There are horror stories everywhere about Houston home buyers entering their newly purchased homes only to find that there are significant issues with the house. These issues were likely unseen during the multiple visits to the house. Some discrepancies may have been visible; however, potential home buyers tend to tour a piece of real estate with rose colored glasses. They do not want to believe anything could be wrong with it. This thought process could become dangerous in the long run and cost you a lot of money. However, once you hire an inspector, there are a few things you need to ask your home inspector:
- What is covered in your inspection?A certified home inspector should inform you of everything that will be inspected; however, always ask. Ensure that their tactics are applicable with state standards and that they will give you a copy of the standards before hiring.
- How long have you been a home inspector? How many inspections have you completed?An inspector will be able to provide his history. A newer inspector is not necessarily a problem, as he will usually have a seasoned partner with him.
- Are you specifically experienced in residential inspection?There are many different types of inspectors for hire. Ensure that the one with whom you choose to work with is experienced in residential home inspection.
- Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?Different inspector associations have rules about whether or not an inspector can actually make repairs to the home. If the inspectors states that he is allowed to repair the issues, consider hiring him. He has the knowledge of specific problems and will not be relying on a 3rd party’s notes.
- How long will the inspection take?A home inspection for a single-family home should not take less than 2 hours. Ensure that you are paying for a quality inspection.
- How much will it cost?Costs of a home inspection will vary depending upon external factors of the property. Be prepared to pay a minimum of $300. A home inspection is a small price to pay for the investment being made.
- What type of inspection report do you provide? How long will the report take to send?Many inspectors can provide a report within 24 hours. This is key during the (Click here to see option period info) option period when time is of the essence.
- Can I attend the inspection?Always attend the inspection if your schedule allows it. An inspector that declines this request should not be hired.
- Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?Different inspector associations have rules about whether or not an inspector can actually make repairs to the home. If the inspectors states that he is allowed to repair the issues, consider hiring him. He has the knowledge of specific problems and will not be relying on a 3rd party’s notes.
- Are you a member of a home inspector association?There are many professional home inspector groups. Request membership ID if this is a criteria for employment.
- How do you keep your skills up to date?Inspectors, like many professionals, have a continuing education resource in order to keep their skills sharp. Ask a lot of questions about training in order to gauge expertise.
TYPES OF INSPECTIONS
There are many different types of Texas home inspections
This type of inspection entails the basics. A Houston certified home inspector will assess the structural features, electrical wiring, insulation throughout the home, roofing and plumbing. This is the most basic inspection you can receive; however, it is important. Any issues with the basic features of a house could cost you down the road.
Probably the most famous of home inspections, termite inspections are an essential part of the home buying process. A certified termite inspector needs to survey the house and check for evidence of termites. In doing so, the home inspector will also be testing the structure. Termites can absolutely ruin your home. Do not take the final steps of buying a house without an independent termite inspection.
A foundation test should be ordered to ensure that the foundation of your home is sturdy, free from erosion, and stable. Don’t endanger the safety of your family by beginning the journey in your new house with foundation problem. Foundation issues can be one of the most expensive repair on a home if not caught on time.
It’s Houston! It’s hot! Ensure that a certified heating and air inspector reviews the performance of the existing unit before purchase. HVAC units are expensive and there is no reason to have to pay the bill for a nonworking unit in a house in which you just moved.
Radon and mold are two hidden dangers within a Texas house. Radon is a radioactive gas that has been linked to cause cancer and mold can cause severe breathing issues. A radon inspection and mold inspection are both relatively cheap. It is worth the cost to ensure your home is free from substances that can cause health problems.
Hydrostatic testing can be performed by a qualified licensed plumber at a cost. Discuss with your real estate agent.
This is not an exhaustive list by any means. Please take any and all precautions when buying a home. Any inspection ordered has value!
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
Home buyers in Houston like to think that they would never commit themselves to a house that would not pass inspection. However, this can be more common than people think. Below is a link to a Zillow review where one of Calvin’s clients had to back out of TWO housing contracts due to failed inspections, and one of them was a brand new house! The initial builder guaranteed nothing was structurally wrong with the home, but an independent home inspector deemed otherwise. At the risk of forfeiting earnest money, the buyers backed out of the contract. Calvin was unsatisfied with the seller withholding money for a problem that was seller’s fault. Calvin was able to negotiate the return of ALL of his client’s upfront cash payments and place his clients into the perfect house for them. To read the full review, click here!
Contact Calvin Kim for more information regarding the home buying process in Houston and home inspections. He will fight for you and ensure that you are moving into a safe house that you can proudly call your home.
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