Home Inspection: Why Should I?
Home inspection vs home appraisal can be a confusing topic for home buyers and new home-owners. You may be asking yourself: What does a home inspection cover, and when should I get one? Home inspections are usually performed when buying or selling a house to check the home for structural problems, safety issues, water flow, electrical issues, and much more.
A meticulous whole home inspection will ensure that new home buyers know exactly what they are buying, so that costly hidden damage can be avoided before signing a 30-year mortgage. Sellers should also request a home inspection to fix any glaring issues before listing their properties.
What is the Point of a Home Appraisal?
Home appraisals are an analysis of the value of your home. A licensed professional appraiser will compare the values of the properties around your home, the features, and the location of your home. They will also assess the property’s condition; however, it is a general overview, not the detailed review you get with a home inspection.
Home appraisals are essential for mortgage lenders to ensure that the home is listed at a fair price that reflects its true value.
Now I Understand the Difference. What Next?
Now that you understand the differences between a home inspection versus home appraisal, it is time to decide which one you need. Are you selling your home? If yes, then you need both a home inspection and an appraisal.
If the health of your home is very good, having a recent inspection to show to your appraiser will work to your advantage. If you are buying a home, you need a home inspection.
I’m Not Buying or Selling a House, Can I Still Get an Inspection?
Yes! In fact, if your home has not been inspected in 5-10 years, getting an inspection done sooner rather than later will help you catch expensive repairs in the early stages before they have progressed. For example, a small roof leak caught early might only need a few shingles replaced, but if left unchecked, it may rot the boards and cause water damage to your ceiling or attic.
Other reasons to get your home inspected include radon and water testing to ensure that you are not breathing or consuming harmful chemicals that cause health issues. Knowledge is power, and taking control of the health of your home is an excellent financial decision in the long run.
I Think I Know the Problem – Do I Still Need an Inspection?
Yes, Home inspectors are trained to spot all the problems in a home; they consider themselves the general practitioners of construction. You may need a specialist or two, such as an electrician and a plumber, but you should consult your GP first to obtain the correct referral.
For example, you have a faulty water heater that you hire an electrician to repair. They replace it and leave, but neglect to tell you that the leak caused foundational damage because that is not their area of expertise.
What Should I Know Before the Inspectors Show Up?
Before the inspectors show up, here is a helpful list of things to know:
- If you have a lot of clutter in your home, consider tidying up to give the inspectors a clear view.
- Have a plan for securing your pets, as the inspector will be opening your attic, crawlspaces, and other areas that are not pet-friendly.
- The inspector will provide you with a copy of their comprehensive inspection once it is completed.
- If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your inspector before they get started!
How Do I Know Who to Choose to Inspect My Home?
Choosing an inspector can be stressful and seem overwhelming. Thankfully, with Detail View Home Inspections, you can rest assured that all of our inspectors are thorough, licensed, and come heavily recommended by homeowners in Roanoke and the surrounding area.
Get a free quote by filling out a quick form online or calling them at 540-521-5365 to schedule your appointment today!