Getting a Home Inspection

Home inspections are an important part of getting to know the home you plan on buying. Texas licensed inspectors, like REALTORS®, are required to take continuing education courses. They must keep abreast of changes in building codes, and in recent years, are required to have insurance. Their rates can vary, often times, it depends on the square footage and the size of the home. Each inspector varies on their scope of inspection, therefore, it is important to ask them that they will and will not evaluate during an inspection.

Whether one is buying a new or resale home, it is important to have a home inspected. Even newly constructed homes may have issues that require attention. If you are building or buying an inventory home, make sure you coordinate with the sales rep. Often times the inspector can do your inspection the same day as your “punch” (when you walk the home with the builder and mark items in need of repair) so that their inspection can be added to the builder’s list of items that need correction. Most builders hire third party inspectors as well, but don’t let this keep you from hiring your own inspector; one who is working for you, not the builder.

If one is buying a resale home, keep in mind that the inspection does not guarantee items will be repaired. The inspection is done for your information on the condition of the property by a professional with an objective overview of items deemed in need of repair per current construction standards. Unless both parties agree to repairs, including lender required ones; there is no single party that can be obligated to do them. They can, however, provide a buyer enough information to decided on the continuation with the purchase of the home or terminate within a contractually agreed period.

Inspections and negotiation of repairs should be done within an option period and before an appraisal is ordered to prevent any loss of funds. Remember, an inspector is a third party, and therefore the cost of the inspection is never refundable if a contract is terminated, but a greater loss can be prevented by having the inspection done to keep you from buying a money pit. Ask a REALTOR® about reputable inspectors and protect yourself by knowing about the home you plan on buying.

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