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A pre-sale evaluation from a qualified home inspector can
save both money and heartache. You'll end up with a list of repairs you can
address before you sell. The last thing you want is a surprise during the
buyer's home inspection that will force you to lower the price or make costly,
last-minute repairs before closing.
Once you've found the home of your dreams, it's time to
make an offer to buy it. Before deciding how much to offer, HUD urges you to get
a professional inspection. It can also be helpful to find out how long the home
has been on the market-if it's been for sale a while, the seller may be more
willing to bargain.
After you and the experienced Key West real estate
agent have prepared your offer, he or she will present it to the seller. It may
be accepted or rejected, or the seller may counter your offer by asking for a
higher price or by making changes in the sales contract.
WHAT DOES A HOME INSPECTOR DO, AND HOW DOES AN
INSPECTION FIGURE IN THE PURCHASE OF A HOME?
An inspector checks the safety of your potential new home. Home Inspectors focus
especially on the structure, construction, and mechanical systems of the house
and will make you aware of only repairs, that are needed.
The Inspector does not evaluate whether or not you're
getting good value for your money. Generally, an inspector checks (and gives
prices for repairs on): the electrical system, plumbing and waste disposal, the
water heater, insulation and Ventilation, the HVAC system, water source and
quality, the potential presence of pests, the foundation, doors, windows,
ceilings, walls, floors, and roof. Be sure to hire a home inspector that is
qualified and experienced.
It's a good idea to have an inspection before you sign
a written offer since, once the deal is closed, you've bought the house as is."
Or, you may want to include an inspection clause in the offer when negotiating
for a home. An inspection t clause gives you an 'out" on buying the house if
serious problems are found, or gives you the ability to renegotiate the purchase
price if repairs are needed. An inspection clause can also specify that the
seller must fix the problem's before you purchase the house.
DO I NEED TO BE THERE FOR THE INSPECTION?
It's not required, but it's a good idea. Following the inspection, the home
inspector will be able to answer questions about the report and any problem
areas. This is also an opportunity to hear an objective opinion on the home
you'd I like to purchase and it is a good time to ask general, maintenance
questions.
ARE OTHER TYPES OF INSPECTIONS REQUIRED?
If your home inspector discovers a serious problem a more specific Inspection
may be recommended. It's a good idea to consider having your home inspected for
the presence of a variety of health-related risks like radon gas asbestos, or
possible problems with the water or waste disposal system.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM LEAD IN THE HOME?
If the house you're considering was built before 1978 and you have children
under the age of seven, you will want to have an inspection for lead-based
point. It's important to know that lead flakes from paint can be present in both
the home and in the soil surrounding the house. The problem can be fixed
temporarily by repairing damaged paint surfaces or planting grass over effected
soil. Hiring a lead abatement contractor to remove paint chips and seal damaged
areas will fix the problem permanently.
ARE POWER LINES A HEALTH HAZARD?
There are no definitive research findings that indicate exposure to power lines
results in greater instances of disease or illness.
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