So, what makes a home inspection important?  And what are the ins and outs of it?  A home inspection is an important part of purchasing a home.  Here’s the rundown of what it looks like…

When does it happen?  A home inspection usually takes place after a seller accepts a buyer’s offer. This protects you as a buyer. If something is found that needs repair, you have the time to make a request before the deal is complete.  You’ll want to get your home inspection done sooner rather than later – if the inspector finds something big that could be a potential deal breaker, it’s best to know before you get too far into the paperwork.

Who pays for it?  Since the home inspection protects the buyer, the buyer generally pays for it. Depending on the location and si  ze of the home, inspections usually range between $300-$500.

Is it required to get a loan? No. Usually a mortgage lender requires an appraisal, in order to put a value on the home and thus, the loan that you’ll need.  However, it’s definitely recommended to get a home inspection for your own monetary safety and peace of mind.

What do they look for?  A home inspection covers all of the main systems, including heating and cooling, plumbing and electric. They’ll also go over the structural integrity of the house and foundation, as well as the grounds.

 

While a home inspection has a price tag up front, it can save you a ton of money in the long run. Usually your real estate agent can make a good suggestion in finding a home inspector. If you still need to find a good agent, you can see a list of our current partners here!  We hope this little cheat sheet helps get you started – and if you still need a lender, feel free to give us a call!  We’d love to help you and your family get into your perfect future home.

 

Best,

Audrey

The Christian Mortgage Mom

Audrey