ABOUT HOME INSPECTIONS
A home inspection -- What is it? Is it a necessity? Who needs it? These
are all typical questions that run through the minds of those involved in a real estate
transaction. Let's take a look at each of them.
What is it? A home inspection, as
defined by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), is a professional, objective
visual examination of the condition of a home. It helps to determine whether there are any
major defects or system inadequacies before the sale of a home goes through, thus
preventing any unpleasant surprises later on.
A home inspection can be performed by either
individual contractors or tradesmen, or by a "whole house" inspector. There
are advantages to each type of inspection method, and you should consult
your REALTOR as to
which type of inspection best suits your needs.
ASHI stresses that home inspections are not intended to point out every small problem
or any non-visual defects in a home. In fact, a home inspector is looking for only serious
problems that affect the "habitability" of the home. Minor, routine maintenance
and repair items are not a major concern of the inspector. For example, dripping faucets, a cracked driveway
or stains in the carpet do not affect habitability. A malfunctioning furnace, a leaky roof
or dangerous wiring does.
A word of caution: a home inspection should not be confused with an appraisal. Although
they may seem to be the same, they each serve distinctly separate purposes. A real estate
appraisal determines the value of a property; the inspection concentrates on the condition
of the property. And, an appraiser works for the bank or for the mortgage company; an
inspector works for the purchaser of the home and, sometimes, the home seller.
Is it necessary? No, a home inspection is not necessary, but in most cases, is highly
recommended.
The purchase of a home is usually the single largest purchase ever made by an
individual. When making any type of major purchase, isn't it nice to have a little
peace of mind that your purchase has no defects or any hidden surprises? A home inspection gives
you that.
Not only do they provide piece of mind, but ASHI points out that home inspections also
highlight the positive aspects of the home. In fact, many of the home inspector's
observations or recommendations help to dispel home buyer anxieties and provide useful
repair and maintenance suggestions.
Who needs it? A home inspection is recommended for either the buyer or the seller. The
seller, you ask? Isn't a home inspection a buyer thing?
Traditionally, yes, a home inspection is the concern of the buyer. Again, it helps
dispel any anxiety the buyer may have concerning the purchase, and it can save a buyer
from a potentially bad investment. All in all, the home inspection increases the buyer's
satisfaction with the completed sale by helping him or her to make an informed decision.
So, why would a seller want an inspection performed on his or her property? Actually,
it's quite logical.
Pre-listing inspections are becoming very popular ways of assisting sellers to identify
necessary repairs, says ASHI. These inspections help them to prepare their property and
set an equitable price for quicker and smoother sales. In essence, it offers the seller
peace of mind as well!
Home inspections are a great way to protect yourself from the unknown, be you a buyer
or a seller. The members of the Daytona Beach Area Association of REALTORS realize this and
make it their goal to insure all parties in a real estate transaction are well served. Be
sure to let a REALTOR serve you in your next transaction.