Well, the truth is, houses don’t actually pass or fail; they get an inspection report telling you everything that you’re going to want to know about it so that you can be fully informed. Remember, this is a buyer beware type of situation. You want to know what you’re getting into, and the inspection is how you’re going to do that.
Hi, I’m Jason Wilson with Ursula and Associates. We specialize in helping buyers navigate through their inspection report so that they can be fully informed of what it is that they’re buying.
The inspection report is crucial, isn’t it? We need to focus on three main categories: items not up to current code, failing components, and safety concerns.
The inspection report will cover various aspects, including items marked as satisfactory and detailing materials and any existing issues. However, modern reports tend to provide more detailed information beyond this basic overview, highlighting specific concerns and necessary actions. While it may mention certain requirements like cleaning or material types, it typically deems them satisfactory in many cases.
Paying for an inspection report isn’t just about hoping everything’s satisfactory; it’s about understanding what you’re getting into, even with new construction homes. While there’s no state license for home inspectors, it’s essential to hire a qualified inspector with a business license and insurance. The best inspectors will advise seeking additional expertise if they encounter anything outside their usual scope, ensuring a thorough assessment of any potential issues.
Let’s delve into one of the key aspects of home inspections: HVAC systems. Inspectors diligently measure temperature differentials to ensure optimal performance. While they typically aim for a range of 15 to 20 degrees, HVAC technicians prefer a narrower range of 18 to 21 degrees for maximum efficiency. However, it’s important to note that these measurements are taken at the unit itself, without factoring in potential temperature variations in the ductwork. Understanding these nuances can lead to more effective solutions and ensure your HVAC system operates at its best, keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient.
Let’s revisit the deck example. In older constructions, joist hangers might not have been used. Instead, a wooden piece was often placed across the joist and secured to the deck with screws or nails. While this method might have complied with building codes at the time, it’s essential to assess its current condition. If there are signs of separation between the plate and the joist, indicating potential structural issues, it may be necessary to retrofit the deck with proper joist hangers for added stability. The key takeaway here is not merely whether the structure meets code, but rather, if it’s showing signs of failure and requires corrective action to ensure safety and structural integrity.
As a buyer, it’s essential to understand that while you can request repairs or adjustments based on the inspection report findings, sellers may evaluate these requests against industry standards and the age of the property. Inspection reports, typically spanning 30 to 60 pages, provide detailed insights into various areas of the property, from the garage to bedrooms and bathrooms. While examining the report, you’ll encounter a summary page outlining the condition of each component, such as the HVAC system, which may include details like its type, functionality, and age, offering valuable information for decision-making.
Most inspection reports include a summary page highlighting areas that need attention, repair, or replacement, while omitting satisfactory aspects. For instance, even if a water heater or air conditioning unit is fully functional, they may be labeled as “at or near end of life” due to their age, prompting budgeting for future replacement. Safety concerns like failing deck joists or malfunctioning pressure relief valves are prioritized for repair, emphasizing the importance of addressing critical issues for your safety and peace of mind.
When reviewing your inspection report, consider three key factors: Was the property built to code at the time of construction? If not, is it currently failing or posing a safety hazard? Finally, are there any code-compliant but potentially hazardous conditions? Hiring a knowledgeable real estate agent can provide invaluable guidance and protection throughout this process, ensuring you make informed decisions and safeguard your investment.
In today’s real estate landscape, the role of a real estate agent extends far beyond simply finding properties. While technology has made property discovery easier, the true value of an agent lies in their ability to protect you throughout the transaction. They excel in structuring deals, creating advantageous terms, and providing expert advice and referrals for repairs, ensuring your interests are safeguarded and your investments are optimized.
In my experience, I’ve encountered situations where major structural issues seemed daunting and costly to fix. However, by bringing in a structural engineer to assess the problem and devise a practical solution, we were able to significantly reduce the estimated repair costs. For instance, what initially seemed like a $20,000 repair requiring an I-beam installation was resolved with a scope of work costing only $2,500. This highlights the importance of having a reliable network of experts, which your Realtor® should provide, to address any concerns identified in inspection reports efficiently and cost-effectively.
While inspection reports can appear intimidating, focusing on major issues like structural integrity, safety, fire hazards, and electrical concerns is key. By partnering with us, you gain access to a team of professionals across various fields who can help resolve these issues promptly and ensure your peace of mind.
I hope this was helpful. If you’re in the market to buy a property, and you’re having trouble navigating not only the higher interest rates and want more options, but you want somebody who is skilled and professional to be able to guide you through this process, then please reach out to us at (678) 389-3887 or you can CLICK HERE to send us a direct message. We will call you and set up a free, no-obligation consultation to help you find your next dream home!