House Inspections: Here's What Buyers Need to Know

by Lena and Rich Benenati 02/16/2020

A home inspection is one of the final stages of the property buying journey. If an inspection goes according to plan, a buyer may be able to seamlessly close on his or her dream residence. On the other hand, if problems are discovered during a house inspection, these issues may slow down or stop a home sale.

For property buyers, it helps to plan ahead for a home inspection as much as possible. Thankfully, we're here to help you do just that.

Now, let's take a look at three things that every buyer needs to know about home inspections.

1. A home inspection typically is performed after a seller accepts a buyer's offer to purchase.

With a home inspection, a buyer can review a house with a property expert and identify any underlying problems. If a buyer finds problems during an inspection, this individual can rescind his or her offer to purchase, modify the offer or move forward with a home purchase.

It typically helps to hire a highly qualified and experienced home inspector. By having a skilled home inspector at your side, you can gain the insights you need to determine whether a house is right for you.

2. A buyer is not required to go to a home inspection, but it generally is a good idea to attend.

Usually, a buyer, his or her real estate agent and a home inspector will walk through a house together during an inspection. It also is important to note that a buyer is not required to go to an inspection, but in most cases, it is a good idea for a buyer to attend.

A buyer who attends a home inspection may be able to receive home insights that he or she won't necessarily find in a house inspection report. As such, this buyer can obtain the house insights that he or she needs to make an informed homebuying decision.

3. A home inspection may require several hours to complete.

There is no time limit for a house inspection, but an average home inspection takes several hours to complete. After the inspection is finished, a property inspector will prepare a report that details his or her findings and provide it to a buyer within a few days. Then, a buyer will need to review the report and determine how to proceed.

As a buyer gets ready to enter the housing market, and eventually, perform a home inspection, it helps to hire a friendly, knowledgeable real estate agent. This housing market professional can help a buyer find the right home, submit a competitive offer to purchase and conduct an in-depth home inspection. And after a buyer completes a successful home inspection, a real estate agent will help this individual navigate the final stages of the property buying journey.

Simplify the homebuying process – employ a real estate agent, and you can get the help you need to locate and purchase your ideal residence.

About the Author
Author

Lena and Rich Benenati

Lena and I have been helping our clients buy and sell real estate since 2002, marking over 26 years of combined market experience! We will earn your trust by utilizing proven marketing strategies, certified professional negotiating skills, and targeted technology. Add to this our local market insight and consistent follow up, and it adds up to a great experience for you! A family owned and operated business, we strive to be your trusted adviser, helping you navigate the home buying and selling processes. It is our mission to combine our extensive experience and superior customer service together with a positive attitude to ensure that you enjoy your buying or selling experience. Our customer service extends beyond the sale, providing you with useful information regularly and connecting you with the resources you need, when you need them. This is why an exceptionally high 80% of our business is referred to us by our past clients. We look forward to exceeding your expectations, in English or Spanish as you desire. Lena & Rich, a team you can trust, for everything real estate.