So you’ve scheduled a home inspection… Maybe you’ve owned a few homes by now and this process isn’t anything new to you. Maybe you’re a first time homebuyer and the home buying process has begun to stress you out. Or perhaps you are a realtor attending the home inspection for the buyers. Regardless of your situation, getting the most out of the inspection process will help you make an informed decision about the significant investment you are about to make – buying a home!
The following five questions are ones you should consider asking your inspector that will help you to decode their findings:
#1) How serious is this issue?
Finding serious issues with a home you are about to purchase can cause some major stress. The issues that are explained with your report at the end of the inspection are not all serious. Ask which ones your inspector would consider major, health and/or safety issues and which ones would be considered general repairs. These issues are mostly minor and typically don’t cost very much to repair.
#2) Can you point that out for me?
At the end of your inspection, the inspector will go over the report with you. Sometimes reports can be long, or photos may not answer all of the questions you have. Don’t be afraid to ask your inspector to point out a certain issue on your report in the home so you can get a better look at it for yourself while you are still in the home.
#3) Can you show me how to work that?
Every home comes with different types of systems and you may not be familiar with those found in your home. Our inspectors are delighted to show you how to operate various systems in your home – from your thermostat to your emergency shutoffs for gas, water, and electrical utilities.
#4) Are there any systems you could see becoming a problem in the future?
Maybe the home has an older air conditioning unit or the hot water heater hasn’t been replaced yet. Your home inspector will be able to tell you what to expect and how much longer certain systems may last before they start to malfunction. This way you will have a better idea of what repairs to save for in the future.
#5) How does this house compare to others related to the number of issues found?
When your home inspector is going over your report with you, the number of issues found can be very overwhelming. Don’t be discouraged, but instead ask how it compares to other homes the inspector has seen. Knowing how your home stands up to others may help in making the decision whether to purchase it or not.
Click here to learn more about Cornerstone’s home inspections, or submit a request for a quote.