Yes, you do need to have a home inspection done on any house you are considering buying. No matter what well-meaning friends and family members tell you, an inspection performed by a professional, reputable home inspector is imperative. Too many home buyers have seen their hopes shattered, when they learn that the home of their dreams is unsafe or requires thousands of dollars worth of repairs to make it livable.
Don’t let this happen to you. Hire a qualified inspector, and make sure you ask all the right questions. Consult with a Realtor if you think you have missed anything. Ask for a full disclosure form and go over it with the real estate agent. Then, call an inspector anyway, paying special attention to any problem areas.
As a general rule, the following are issues that must be addressed:
- The foundation: Are there any signs of leaks, cracks, or settling that give cause for concern? Check for areas that look uneven. Most homes have a certain amount of settling. However, if doors and windows don’t close, the home may have settled to the point that it is no longer level. This is especially true of older homes.
- Pest control: Are there termites or other pests that could damage the integrity of the home? Look for rodent droppings and other signs of pests as well.
- Electrical and plumbing systems: Does the wiring and plumbing appear to be up to code and professionally installed? Are there any holes or leaks? Check out cabinets under sinks. Do the lights flicker when an appliance is turned on? How is the water pressure?
- The roof: Is the roof solid and in stable condition? How is the structure beneath the shingles? Check the corners too. Does any wood appear to be rotted? How old is the roof?
This is the short list. There are many other issues that should be carefully addressed before you decide to sign any papers, but inspecting the property carefully and following up with a professional inspection, will help ease your mind.
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