Home Inspections

What Do I Need to Know?

Home Appraisal and Home Inspections

Home appraisers and home inspectors each play very important functions in setting the stage for real estate sales. Both generate reports that can be used to prevent the buyer from overpaying, but they do not have identical roles.

An appraiser attempts to look at a home the way a buyer would, taking into consideration any visual flaws that might discourage a purchase.  They are working for the lender. Lenders require appraisals to make sure they are not approving loans for more that the property is worth.

Do I need a home inspection? 

Yes. Buying a home "as is" is a risky proposition. Major repairs on homes can amount to thousands of dollars. Plumbing, electrical and roof problems represent significant and complex systems that are expensive to fix. If in doubt, talk to your Real Estate Agent for advice.

A home inspector will do a detailed, hands-on evaluation of the property being purchased. It is their job to make sure there are no hidden problems that could become unwanted surprises after the sale.  

Home inspectors will examine all accessible areas and evaluate based on safety and the need for maintenance.  With a good home inspection report, you can make sure your offer is based on knowledge of the home's assets and its flaws. 

When the inspection is complete, make sure to get a copy of the inspector's checklist and ensure that it covers all of the areas you think are important.  The inspector will walk with you through the home and point out any problems uncovered by the inspection and recommendations for how to address them.

This inspection is a bargaining tool which will allow you to ask for repairs or a change in the price of the home by the amount required to correct the problems.