How to Survive a Scary Home Inspection
Whether you’re buying or selling, home inspections can be scary. In fact, they almost always are! Why? Home inspectors are hired to find all issues, potential problems, and needed maintenance. Unfortunately, even brand new homes can have a list of hidden issues, and even the most meticulously maintained homes will need some repairs. Whether it be a roof that should be replaced within five years, a faucet leak, an outdated electrical system or cracks in the driveway, you’re sure to find at least a few things on the report.
Needless to say, the majority of buyers can become overwhelmed. And it’s not uncommon for the sellers to be frustrated, either — after all, many sellers have worked hard to maintain their homes! The best reassurance that we can provide is that it’s normal to be intimidated by an inspection report. A good home inspector will take the time to carefully evaluate the home, draft a thorough report, and answer any questions that you may have. We always recommend thoroughly reading through this report and gaining an understanding of how to best maintain your new home.
Really concerned about something specific? Some items on the inspection report may be negotiated between the buyer and seller before settlement. The seller will often make the repair before the closing date, or sometimes a credit is offered to the buyer so that he or she may make the repair themselves. It’s also not uncommon to consult a specialist (depending on the issue, this may involve a structural engineer, general contractor, plumber, or electrician) to determine the extent of the repair needed and a more specific dollar amount.
Be sure to consult your EveryHome agent with any questions you might have about your home inspection. We’re always happy to help, and we pride ourselves on assisting our clients navigate through the entire home buying process!