Before you purchase a home, you will want to have it inspected thoroughly and inspections usually commence in the first week of the escrow process. This provides you with time to learn about potential problems with your new home and to make decisions regarding these problems. There are several different kinds of home inspections that you might want to consider.
The most common type of inspection is a general inspection, and this will take several hours for the inspector to complete. They should inspect both the interior and exterior structure, as well as looking over the grounds. This professional should look at the electrical outlets, water faucets, drains, windows, roof, attic and all of the rooms. They are looking to make sure that the home is not only in good shape, but that all of the electrical components of your home are safe and working. Usually, an inspector will find ,a few minor issues, as almost no home is 100% perfect. Generally, this costs several hundred dollars, depending on the size of the property.
In addition to the general inspection, there are quite a few other inspections that you probably should at least consider. Hiring a termite inspector is a great idea, as you cannot always see the evidence of termites yourself, but the inspector will know where to look. They also can look for evidence of other common pests, such as rats and mice.
If your home has some special features, you might need to hire some specialists to check out these items. A pool inspector is a good option for homes with a pool and/or a spa. If you have chimneys, you can hire an inspector who can come and look at the fireplace as well as the chimneys, and this is particularly important with an older home. For a home built prior to the 1970s, it can be good have someone check for signs of lead paint and asbestos, especially if the home's ownership has remained consistent for many years. A roof inspector is also a good idea for almost any home, especially if your general inspector sees any evidence of disrepair.
When you live in an area where the ground tends to be unstable or prone to seismic events, a geologist is another good person to hire. Even if earthquakes don't occur in your area, different types of soil affect the settlement of your home and if you know that the area has had a problem or two, it is wise to get an evaluation. Also if the home has many settlement cracks or floors seem to slope oddly, it can be a good idea to have an inspector take a look.
When you are searching for a qualified home inspector, be sure to ask your real estate agent for advice, as these professionals often can provide you with a list of excellent options. The team at Nixon Real Estate, for instance, not only can suggest inspectors but also help you find amazing Fredericksburg homes for sale, Kerrville homes for sale and Texas Hill Country homes for sale.
The most common type of inspection is a general inspection, and this will take several hours for the inspector to complete. They should inspect both the interior and exterior structure, as well as looking over the grounds. This professional should look at the electrical outlets, water faucets, drains, windows, roof, attic and all of the rooms. They are looking to make sure that the home is not only in good shape, but that all of the electrical components of your home are safe and working. Usually, an inspector will find ,a few minor issues, as almost no home is 100% perfect. Generally, this costs several hundred dollars, depending on the size of the property.
In addition to the general inspection, there are quite a few other inspections that you probably should at least consider. Hiring a termite inspector is a great idea, as you cannot always see the evidence of termites yourself, but the inspector will know where to look. They also can look for evidence of other common pests, such as rats and mice.
If your home has some special features, you might need to hire some specialists to check out these items. A pool inspector is a good option for homes with a pool and/or a spa. If you have chimneys, you can hire an inspector who can come and look at the fireplace as well as the chimneys, and this is particularly important with an older home. For a home built prior to the 1970s, it can be good have someone check for signs of lead paint and asbestos, especially if the home's ownership has remained consistent for many years. A roof inspector is also a good idea for almost any home, especially if your general inspector sees any evidence of disrepair.
When you live in an area where the ground tends to be unstable or prone to seismic events, a geologist is another good person to hire. Even if earthquakes don't occur in your area, different types of soil affect the settlement of your home and if you know that the area has had a problem or two, it is wise to get an evaluation. Also if the home has many settlement cracks or floors seem to slope oddly, it can be a good idea to have an inspector take a look.
When you are searching for a qualified home inspector, be sure to ask your real estate agent for advice, as these professionals often can provide you with a list of excellent options. The team at Nixon Real Estate, for instance, not only can suggest inspectors but also help you find amazing Fredericksburg homes for sale, Kerrville homes for sale and Texas Hill Country homes for sale.
About the Author:
Pammy McGrath enjoys reading about real estate blogs. If you are searching for licensed real estate Fredericksburg TX agents, or to find a Fredericksburg Texas homes for sale, please go to the NixonRealEstate.com site today.