by James Richardson

Created on: June 23, 2010

Although purchasing a home can be a complicated endeavor, one thing that should not be overlooked is getting a home inspection report from a qualified home inspector.  Even though it may seem expensive at the time, buying a home is a big investment.  Overlooking a professional, pre-sale inspection can be costly down the road.

In addition to providing an assessment of the condition of the property, a home inspection provides you with an objective evaluation of a home's structure, site drainage, and its mechanical operations.  If problems do exist, it does not necessarily mean that you should not buy the home.  A home inspector must follow the codes that are applicable to building in your state, and some of the issues raised may be minor.  In many instances, a buyer will either pay for repairs or adjust the sales price accordingly.  If you are using an agent, address the individual items with him or her.

Of most importance is the overall structure and its heating, cooling, electrical and plumbing systems.  All should be thoroughly checked by the inspector.  In addition to the structural evaluation and mechanical systems check, a properly done home inspection can alert a buyer to potentially harmful threats including such things as the potential for mold, termite damage, lead-based paint and asbestos. As a buyer, you should always make sure that the sales contract is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory home inspection. 

Russell Truluck, owner of Truluck Home Inpections LLC, has performed over 1200 inspections in the Upstate of South Carolina and its surrounding areas.   According to Russell, "You should avoid costly delays or surprises by having a home inspection performed by a qualified and experienced professional."

Choosing the right home inspector can be difficult. Russell says "different inspectors have varying qualifications, experience, reporting methods, and pricing.  A thorough inspection depends heavily on the individual inspector's knowledge and experience". Always check their certifications, knowledge, and experience.  Russell recommends that the inspector you choose also be a licensed contractor with building experience.

For sellers and current homeowners; houses are subjected to destructive forces on a continuous basis. "Finding small problems and having repairs made in a timely manner can save you thousands of dollars in major repairs and replacements. Preventative maintenance can reduce your home’s consumption of energy, extend life expectancy of the major components, and lower your cost for repairs", according to Russell.

Every home has its secrets. A thorough home inspection will not only reveal these secrets, but provide the home buyer with a degree of confidence in the purchase. In addition to the home appraisal, required by most mortgage lenders, the home inspection will help justify the selling price of the home and, in fact, can be a key factor in negotiations.

For more information or to find a qualified home inspector in your area, CLICK HERE.

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