Shawn
719-264-7777
Do Buyers Really Need a Home Inspection?
Are you kidding me?
That is what most real estate agents would say. Their biggest concern through the inspection process is for their buyer and any potential liability that they may carry if they do not recommend a home inspection.
Most home buyers, especially first timers, are not savvy enough to go without a thorough multi-faceted inspection. A qualified inspector will do a full check of all of the major systems in the house as well as possible radon testing. I have bought and sold homes for many years and now feel pretty confident that I can do my own inspection with the help of my Dad who has a lifetime of experience in plumbing and construction. I have also witnessed so many inspections over the years that I know just what to be looking for A buyer who has never bought a home in Colorado Springs might not have that advantage. He is the one who definitely needs to hire a pro!
The key to a good inspection is a good inspector. I have seen many people choose an inspector who is not really qualified to do the job. Some do a half-way job and then give a scribbled report with a bunch of nit-picky items on it but miss the big things that will most likely cost the new buyer a lot of money. I recommend Scott Whitbeck of Home Team Inspections. I found his video on You Tube today and think it gives a good idea of who he is what he does. I have used many inspectors over the years but Scott is the first one I have seen give a 90 day guarantee to home buyers. Wow! If your water heater blows up a month after closing, he has it under warranty for you! What a comfort.
When choosing an inspector, don’t just rely on your real estate agents list that they give you. They may just be giving you that list because the inspector takes them to lunch or offers other perks. Do your homework prior to contacting anyone. A good inspector should have some sort of info online, either a national web site for their franchise or their business here in town. Make sure the inspector is a member of ASHI, the American Society of home Inspectors. They have a strict set of standards and guidelines for all of their members. You do not want to just hire some guy who has a truck and a flash light to inspect your biggest investment ever! You want someone who is insured and has passed a standards test. Ask about the background of the inspector. Ask about the price of the inspection and exactly what it will include. I recommend a radon test for all homes in Colorado Springs. Refer to my previous post a few weeks ago for more info on that subject.
You can expect to pay a fee of approx. $250 for a home inspection and an additional fee for radon testing. Prices will depend also on the size and age of the property. Be sure to ask up front about all of the options available and the cost of each one. Many inspectors will also accept credit cards for payment.
The cost of a home inspection will be money well spent for the peace of mind you will have after moving into your new home. A home purchase is a huge investment. Buyer’s need to use all of the available tools to make sure they are buying a property that is safe and in working order.