Why A Buyer Needs A Home Inspection

Can you get a home inspection before making offers

Why get a home inspection before buying

A home inspection gives the buyer more detailed information about the overall condition of the home prior to buying the home.  In a home inspection, a qualified inspector takes an in-depth, unbiased look at the potential new to evaluate the physical condition of the structure, construction, and mechanical systems.  The inspector will also identify items that need to be repaired or replaced and estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems, equipment, structure, and finishes when getting the facts about your home inspection.

Appraisals are different from the home inspections

An appraisal is different from a home inspection.  Appraisals are for lenders and home inspections are for buyers.  An appraisal is required to estimate the market value of a house, make sure that the house meets FHA minimum property standards/requirements and make sure the property is marketable.

FHA or VA does not guarantee the value or condition of your potential new home

If you find problems with your new home after closing, FHA or VA can not give or lend you money for repairs.  The FHA or VA cannot buy the home back from you.  That is why it is so important for you, the buyer, to get an independent home inspection.  If work needs to be done or recommended by the home inspector the home might qualify for an FHA 203K.  Please ask your lender for their FHA 203k programs.  Also, do not forget to ask a qualified home inspector to inspect your potential new home and give you the information you need to make a wise decision.

Radon Gas Testing

The United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Surgeon General of the United States have recommended that All houses should be tested for radon. For more information on radon testing, call the toll-free National Radon Information Line at 1-800-SOS-Radon or 1-800-767-7236.  As with a home inspection, if you decide to test for ready, which you should, you may do so after signing the contract during the inspection/attorney review period.

Be an Informed Buyer

It is your responsibility to be an informed buyer.  Be sure that what you buy is satisfactory in every respect.  You have the right to carefully examine your potential new home with a qualified home inspector during the inspection/attorney review period in your contract that you signed.  It is your right in the State of Illinois and many other States to do a home inspection and have an attorney review period after you sign a contract to purchase a home.