Why is knowing the condition of the home so important?

The condition of the home can have a huge financial impact on the home purchase decision. Home prices have risen substantially over the years and so has the cost of home repairs. Today's home buyer must consider not only the cost of buying the home, but also the cost of owning the home. Nothing can be more devastating, both emotionally and financially, than to have a family move into their new home only to face thousands of dollars in unexpected repair costs.

What does a home inspector do?

A well-trained professional inspector can provide you with the information you need to make an informed purchase decision and a good investment. A written home inspection report will detail the home's condition including the heating and cooling systems, the plumbing and electrical systems, the roof and siding, as well as the framing and foundation. In addition, many home inspectors will provide or can arrange for additional environmental services that may be required or desired.

Once I have a home inspection, then what do I do?

Armed with this valuable information, you can then factor the needed repair costs into the home purchase equation. After the inspection, you can complete the purchase with confidence. In the end, a well-trained professional inspector can provide you with peace of mind that you have made a sound and intelligent investment decision.

How do I Choose the Best Home Inspector?

Your uncle offered to inspect the home that you are considering to purchase, the guy next door offered to give it a "going over," and somebody at work raved about his cousin who has just started out in the business.

You really appreciate everyone's willingness to help you out, but how can you be sure that the person you choose to perform your home inspection is a qualified individual with the experience, background, understanding, and professionalism you want and so desperately need?

A good inspector will be able to explain to you how the home was originally built, what has been done to it since then, what the present condition is and most importantly what you need to expect as far as upgrading, updating, or repairs and replacements.

Choosing the wrong inspector can result in your purchasing a home with unforeseen and costly surprises. In this situation you may not even be aware of the condition the home you are buying is in until you move in and then it will be too late.

The home inspector's report must be clear, concise, professional, and detail oriented.

The home inspector you choose must not only know what he/she is looking at but must also be capable of clearly and professionally communicating his/her conclusions.

The best place to start your search for the right inspector is with the oldest most widely respected and recognized home inspection association in the industry.