You're excited because you found a place you want to call home as your primary residence or as an investment property, now what? How do you know if the spot you're in escrow on will be a dream come true or a headache from the start? Did you ever see the movie the Money Pit? I don't think Tom Hank's character invested in home inspections before buying the house con artist elderly woman. In this article, The real costs of inspecting a home you want to buy, we're going to review a few of the staple home inspections I advise my real estate clients to invest in.

The short answer is you're the boss and can do whatever you want. My advice as a Real Estate Advisor, you should have four inspections completed i.e. general inspection, foundation inspection, termite inspection/ retrofit, and a sewer line video inspection. The inspection fees most likely will total $1,000.00. This is money well invested. Notice how I wrote invested and not spent. 

 

It's important you need to understand the condition and serviceable lifespan of the property systems as well as the structural integrity of the dwelling. You don't want to buy a headache. and you'll also be in a favorable position to draft a material facts list of the current property condition. What does this mean? You can approach the seller asking for help with either closing credits a price reduction or both. 

 

You should be working with a local expert real estate advisor. if your agent doesn't have trusted inspectors on their team that may be a red flag. Either your Realtor is a rookie or a part-time agent. Either way, you should consider hiring another agent for the job of helping you find the right place to call home and save you money.

 

Inspections last at least three to four hours depending on the size of the house or condo and if there are any amenities like a swimming pool or a spa it could take a bit longer. Some of my clients elect to arrive at the end of inspections for the walkthrough recap. Others prefer to be on a video call if they're too busy or out of town. Your agent should be present for all of the inspections collecting first-hand information about the property condition.

 

Yes. The seller is obligated to disclose any known facts or deferred maintenance about the property which is known as a seller's disclosure package. They also need to disclose anything known which may affect the properties future value - like a new building slated for construction across the street from the house they're selling. Or maybe a new fire department station nearby which would create more noise.

 

Remember inspectors aren't perfect. Nobody can see through walls - I don't think, anyway. The best you can do to protect yourself is to make sure to hire licensed inspectors or inspectors who carry certificates for their given trade expertise. At the end of an inspection, a detailed report should be given to you which calls out any signs of problems. Usually, recommendations will also be provided including advice on secondary inspections. If significant cracks are present a foundation inspection might be recommended. If stains are noticed on the ceiling it might be smart to seek the opinion of a licensed roofer contractor. The clearer picture you have about the property the less likely you'll be surprised later and the more likely you could negotiate for seller credits or a price reduction.

 

Other helpful resources we trust:

 

Guide to the home inspection | Paul Sian

Luxury home inspections | Joy Bender

Home inspections for buyers and sellers | Bill Gassett

This is why you need that home inspection | Jamohl DeWald

15 costly home buyer mistakes | Eileen Anderson

 

 

The Shelhamer Real Estate Group | Realpro Eastside is a real estate brokerage working with home buyers and sellers on the Eastside of Los Angeles including, Highland Park, El Sereno, Mount Washington, South Pasadena, Glassell Park, Eagle Rock, Echo Park, Silverlake, Los Feliz, and the Hollywood Hills East. If you enjoyed this article, find more tips when buying and selling a home at Glenn's real estate blog.