While the home buying experience can be one filled of excitement. Many homebuyers are nervous and apprehensive about their home inspections. This makes sense as the home inspection process is one of the most important parts of buying a home. Attached below are 5 common fears of home inspections along with ways to combat each issue.
- What if something comes up in my home inspection?
There is no such thing as a “perfect” home and each home is subject to repairs. Go into your home inspection with an open mind and feel free to ask your home inspector about their opinion of the issue. It’s better to allow your home inspector to do a complete inspection and wait to ask your questions during the final walk through of the inspection. This allows you the reassurance that your home inspector was able to inspect the entire home to best of his or her ability. Review your concerns with your realtor and determine if you would like to negotiate with the seller on the items.
- If I back out after an inspection will I lose my binder deposit?
Prior to submitting an offer, review this concern with your realtor and make sure that you are comfortable with the terms of the contract and that you are given an inspection period with the right to back out and still receive your binder. This will allow for a smoother process should you need to back out during the inspection period.
- Inspections are expensive…can I just use a handyman?
On average, home inspections cost around $300 to $400. Some loans such as VA, FHA, and USDA loans do require certain inspections as part of the loan process. If you are purchasing your home with cash or a loan type that does not require a home inspection you can opt out. However, home inspections are recommended. It is also recommended that you use a certified home inspector over a handyman to ensure that your home is inspected properly. Strongly consider home inspectors that are certified by ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors). Ask your realtor for their recommendations and do not be afraid to research other local companies.
- I am purchasing a house in AS-IS condition. Is it worth doing an inspection?
We recommend ordering a home inspection on a home being sold in as is condition. It allows you to understand the work needed in the home. If an issue that comes up is a deal breaker, speak with your realtor about exiting the contract or trying to negotiate the cost of the home with the seller. If no issues come up, then you will feel reassured about your purchase. It’s always worth it!
- What if something is missed during my inspection?
There is always a risk for an issue being missed on a inspection. The best way to combat this issue is to do thorough research prior to selecting an inspector. Before the inspection, ask your realtor to provide you with a sellers disclosure on the property so that you are aware of any issues that the seller disclosed prior to the sale. Discuss these issues with your inspector and realtor and determine if they are deal breakers. Join in for your home inspection so that you are aware of the issues discovered. Upon receipt of your written inspection report, discuss all items with your realtor and determine how you would like to move forward. Lastly, consider a home warranty to add piece of mind.
While a home inspection can be a stressful endeavor it is always a good option for a homebuyer and can lead to a better understanding of your future asset. Always feel free to reach out to your AgentChase Realtor with any concerns or worries. We are here and happy to help! Congratulations on your home buying journey!
About the Authors:
Jeff and Smruthi are husband and wife Real Estate Team proudly serving Jacksonville and surrounding. They offer homebuyers closing cost assistance allowing them to save. For those looking to sell; AgentChase provides competitive flat fee listing options while providing unbeatable service.
Are you looking to buy or sell? Contact us today at 904-513-8575 or send us an email at different@agentchase.com