Many people who are buying a home – particularly first time buyers – aren’t quite sure whether they need to hire a home inspector. After all, it’s entirely possible to test outlets, visually inspect roofing materials and look for cracks that could betray a sinking foundation without adding the expense of hiring a home inspector.
However, there’s a bit more to a successful home inspection than you may realize.
What Home Inspectors Actually Do
It’s a home inspector’s job to evaluate a home’s overall condition. That includes safety and a number of other factors that could impact your decision to buy or not to buy.
Home inspectors look for things such as:
- Bad wiring
- Fire hazards
- Foundational problems
- Hidden defects throughout the home
Because home inspectors are required to participate in specialized training that teaches them how to evaluate nearly every aspect of a home, it’s usually a good idea to hire one; it helps to ensure that you’re not making a bad choice that will come back to haunt you down the road.
What to Ask Your Home Inspector
Before you hire a home inspector, you can – and should – conduct several “interviews” to find someone you can trust.
Some of the questions you should ask your home inspector include:
- Are you bonded and insured?
- Do you also perform repairs?
- Where can I find your references?
- May I be present during the inspection?
- What does your inspection include?
- Do you have any areas of special expertise?
Naturally, you’ll also want to know about your home inspectors fees. However, as with nearly everything, a home inspector’s fees aren’t as important as his or her skill and talent.
Are You Buying a Home or Property in North Florida?
If you’re looking for a home, an equestrian property, timberland or any other type of property in North Florida, we can help.
Call us at 386-243-0124 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll be happy to begin a custom search just for you.
