Smart Start Home Inspections

08/06/2024

07/24/2024

Frequently Asked Questions
Who attends a home inspection?

While the only one that needs to attend the inspection is the home inspector, most buyers will either attend themselves or have their realtor attend.

Is a home inspection mandatory?

Some lenders may require a home inspection, but in most cases, a home inspection is not a mandatory process required by law or by most mortgage lenders.

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07/24/2024

What Happens After a Home Inspection?
Once the home inspection is complete, the inspector will compile their findings in a home inspection report. The report is then presented to the buyer about three to four days after the home inspection takes place. When the buyer receives the inspection, they can review it with their real estate agent and use the details to renegotiate the terms of the purchase.

Buyers may ask the seller to complete specific repairs or may decide to negotiate a lower price, taking into account the necessary investment to fix any outstanding issues. In some cases, the inspection report may even provide grounds for an offer withdrawal, especially if the buyer had a contingency in the purchase agreement that covered the total cost of repairs.

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07/24/2024

When Does a Home Inspection Happen?
A home inspection can take place at any time. Homeowners that want to get to know their home better can hire an inspector to conduct a thorough investigation of the property to uncover any hidden problems. However, most home inspections will take place when the home is put up for sale.

After the seller has accepted an offer on the property, but before the final sale of the house, the buyer will be able to schedule a home inspection appointment. Depending on the results of the home inspection, the buyer may need to renegotiate the terms of the sale to ensure they are not stuck with a poor investment.

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07/24/2024

Preparing for a Home Inspection
Buyers will want to carefully review the disclosure form completed by the seller and discuss the details with the home inspector. Buyers should note any specific issues they want the inspector to examine and set aside about two to three hours to accompany the inspector during the inspection appointment.

Sellers should fill out and submit a disclosure form to the buyer before the inspection so that the buyer and home inspector are aware of any existing problems. Conduct a brief pre-inspection to look for any issues you may have missed, while compiling a list of repairs that have been made recently for the buyer to review. Sellers will need to ensure all areas of the property are easy to access, so the home inspector can complete the inspection appointment without issue.

SmartStartHomeInspections.com

07/24/2024

How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
The prospective buyer is typically responsible for the cost of a home inspection, though they may have their realtor handling the booking. On average, a home inspection can cost between $200 to $500. The final price depends on several key factors, including the size of the home, the location of the property, and the depth of the inspection report.

Before hiring a home inspector, research at least three reputable home inspection companies in the area and get price estimates for the work. This will help you get a general idea of the local cost, while narrowing down the choice of home inspection companies.

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07/24/2024

How to Pick a Home Inspector
A home inspector needs to have the skills, experience, and general know-how to identify any problem areas throughout the home.

It's important to ensure the inspector is familiar with local building codes and regulations, and that the company has a good reputation for quality work. Ask the inspector to provide references from previous clients, and discuss the inspection process, as well as any additional services or reports that may be included in the inspection.

SmartStartHomeInspections.com

07/24/2024

How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
In most cases, a home inspection for an average-sized property will take about two to three hours to complete, though it may take longer if the home is in poor condition or if the inspector has to move any objects to gain access to specific areas of the house. Even with a pair of inspectors, the inspection process will still take about 90 minutes to complete.

Homes that are larger than 2,000 square feet can add to the total duration of the inspection, with every additional 500 square feet of space requiring an extra 30 minutes to inspect.

Due to the potential for a follow-up appointment, discuss the expected duration with the inspector before hiring them.

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