The Top Inspection to Get When Buying a Home.

So, you’re buying a home…Congratulations! Understanding the state of the house you are buying is a vital step in the purchase process. There are lots of inspections you can do to get detailed information about a specific part of a property. However, a “home inspection” is the most important way to get a snapshot of a home’s overall condition.

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a comprehensive visual inspection of the property from the roof to the foundation and everything in between. The inspector evaluates the serviceability of the exterior, interior, plumbing, and more. However, home inspections are general in scope and are not meant to replace inspections by specialists, such as sewer or roofing contractors.

Primary Inspection Components:

Exterior: Flatwork, Fences, Siding, Eaves, and Decks

Interior: Ceilings, Walls, Floors, Doors, Windows, Appliances, Utility Services, Attic, and Garage

Roof: Surface, Gutters, and Downspouts

Fireplace and Chimney

Foundation: Framing and Slab

Plumbing: Pipes, Sewage, Water Heaters, and Fixtures

Electrical: Service, Wiring, and Receptacles

Mechanical Systems: Furnace, Ducts, Filters, and Air Conditioning

What to expect during a home inspection.

Home inspections typically take two hours to check an average-sized home. We highly recommend buyers take the time to attend the inspection. Attending will allow you to have a closer look at the property and ask the inspector questions. If you can’t make it, your real estate agent should be present for the inspection to make sure nothing is missed.

When the process is complete, the inspector will do a walkthrough with you and summarize their findings. The walkthrough is a good opportunity to ask your followup questions. During this time you will also learn if something needs to be further examined by a specialist. The inspector will then issue you a detailed report of all their findings in 24 to 48 hours.

How much does it cost?

Home inspections in Yolo and Sacramento Counties range from $400-$600 depending on the size of the property. Occasionally, sellers will do a home inspection before listing their property, but most often buyers pay for the home inspection. Service details, availability, and add on’s can vary between home inspection companies, so talk with two to three providers before choosing one.

In summary, a home inspection is highly important and should be scheduled before specialist inspections. It will give you an invaluable overview of the condition of the property. Once you have the findings of the home inspection you can get further inspections as you see fit or use the inspection for negotiations during escrow.

For more information about the home buying and selling process contact us.