A home inspection is one of the most crucial phases in a real estate transaction. That is because purchasing a home is a significant investment, and it is vital to identify every detail before agreeing to any transaction. If you know what to look for, then you can dive in and inspect yourself. Alternatively, you can hire a certified or professional home inspector to certify the condition of the property you are looking to buy. And while home inspectors will figure out everything for you at a fee, it would be best to be present and to have a general idea of what should be inspected in the home during the walkthrough. That’s why we have compiled the aspects to look for during a home inspection. Let’s get started.
Areas to cover during a home inspection
The general exterior inspection
A home inspection is best done if it covers every aspect. That’s why it is important to know which inspection company to hire because some offer general service while others focus on the exterior. Either way, the whole home has to be examined to make sure everything is in good working condition before making the purchase. The inspection criteria on the exterior focus on:
- The plumbing system
- Electrical system
- The roof
- The foundation
A home inspection usually takes time because you want to make sure you move in when all utilities and appliances are functioning. And an inspection should cover it all. Moreover, most inspectors start inspecting from the exterior. And some of the aspects they focus on include:
- Chimney cracks
- Wood and trim rot
- Structural issues on the porch or deck
- Windows
- Water penetration problems on the roof
The most common inspection aspects on the interior include:
- The heating system
- The boiler and any leaking issues
- Structural problems in the foundation
- Air conditioning
- Window seals
Pests and insect infestation
According to Jims Building Inspections Perth, parasites are common home inspection issues. And while you will expect to see rodents in old or abandoned properties, it is important to check on pests because it is a problem that you might find yourself dealing with when you move in. one or two rats wouldn’t be a far cry though as it could be isolated cases.
The septic system
This is vital for inspection. Waste disposal through the septic should be properly inspected, so you don’t move in and start taking the time to fix it yourself. Moreover, replacing the septic system can be costly, and you wouldn’t want to shoulder that burden in your new residence.
When you are analyzing a house, you need to learn what are the major and minor repairs that need to be done on the house. If you are investing your money then you need to learn all the near and future terms. Say you are planning to live in that place for a few years only. Now if you want to resell it; what will be your expectations for the house? How to sell a house in need of repairs? Inspect all those aspects of your house and then make your decision.
The bottom line
Before putting down your buck on a home, you must get versed with the current condition of the house. That would help you make your eventual decision to move in and boost your bargaining power, which can help you renegotiate the price. Moreover, when it comes to reevaluating the items unearthed during the inspection, you can argue with reasonable requests that could go a long way in helping your course.
