Home Inspection - The Basics

The home inspector conducts a visual inspection of accessible systems and components of the home including: structure and foundation, electrical systems, plumbing systems , roofs and attics, basements and crawl spaces, gutters and drainage, walls, floors and ceilings,  porches and decks, property slope, deck, fences, etc. 

The inspector also operates and inspects:  furnaces, air conditioning, plumbing fixtures in kitchens and baths, water heaters, lights and receptacles, windows and doors, built-in appliances. The inspector will provide rough cost estimates of repair items and take digital photographs of any areas of concern.

The typical home inspection takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. I am with the Buyer throughout.  A written report, with photos, is provided to you.

Please note the inspector is working for you, not me. My role is to listen to his advice with you and ask questions on your behalf. There are several possible outcomes for you to take and I will be with you all the way in making this decision:

1.    You Accept the condition of the house and ‘Fulfill the Condition’, which means you are going to proceed to make your Offer "Firm";

2.    You Decide to Counter with an ‘Amendment’ to the Offer, because of major flaws, proposing either a price reduction or a list of items you want the Seller has the repair and provide proof of repair for; or

3.    You Walk Away from this house, as being too problematic,  we will find a better one! 

Read more about the most common home inspection issues.