What is a home inspection?
Home inspections are a visual evaluation of a home from roof to basement. It’s an important step in the home purchase process that alerts buyers of what may need attention before finalizing a contract. Though not required by your mortgage lender or realtor, it is often a highly recommended step to ensure you’re investing in the right property.
Greenwich Home Inspector are licensed by the State of Connecticut. Our inspectors check the performance of the home’s roof, driveway, foundation, framing, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and more, based on your particular needs.
What Will Be Included In Your Inspection?
Our licensed professional will inspect electrical outlets, window alignment, septic tank and pipe leaks, the condition of roof shingles, sufficient insulation, basement and garage foundations, proper functioning of appliances, proper ventilation, up-to-code wiring, proper functioning of circuit breakers, operational fire and carbon monoxide alarms, and the general condition of windows, doors, floors, ceilings, and walls. In addition, we offer inspections for WDO/Termite issues, Radon Gas testing, Water testing and CO2 testing.
Who Benefits From A Home Inspection?
Now, something you may not have known: home inspections are not just for buyers, they’re also beneficial for sellers. Here’s what you need to know, regardless of which side of the negotiation table you’re on.
Tips for sellers: what to look for before you list:
Why are home inspections important to sellers? Getting a pre-listing home inspection offers sellers the ability to find out the exact condition of the property. It can also help: see the extent and nature of each defect, allow for sufficient time to make repairs before the home sale, Complete the seller’s disclosure and price the home more accurately, prevent seller concession requests, and improve buyer confidence
Tips for buyers: what to look for before making an offer
Why are home inspections important to buyers? Any concerns from the inspection report can reopen negotiations with the seller. So, it’s a good idea to be a part of the process. You are able to: join the inspector on the home tour (recommended but not required), follow along where you can and take notes, see and understand what needs attention, get suggestions on overall home improvement, receive a complete report of their findings, so you can request repairs from the seller or request seller concessions, and have the opportunity to opt out of buying the home if issues are too big.
What should you ask a home inspector?
You have many options if you choose to hire a home inspector. Home inspections are important, so always, always, be sure to interview the inspector before hiring them. Greenwich Home Inspectors have over 50 years of serving our clients throughout Connecticut and receive referrals from realtors and agencies on a daily basis. We are happy to have a meeting with you to discuss your needs and allow you to ask any questions about the process. Manly of our clients have asked questions such as these:
- Are you focused on residential or commercial properties?
- What does the inspection include?
- How many home inspections have you done?
- How do you keep your expertise up to date?
- Can I attend the inspection?
- Can I see a sample report?
Anything Else?
Keep in mind: home inspections are not all-inclusive. Some areas of the home require a specialist. You may want to consider the following options, depending on where you live:
EIFS
EIFS is an acronym for Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems. It’s also known as synthetic stucco. Synthetic stucco is a popular exterior choice for many, but it must be installed properly to avoid issues. If the EIFS is adhered directly to the substrate by fasteners or mastic, with no drainage plane for water to drain down, expect water to get in. Add in high moisture and you can expect the substrate to rot.
Keep in mind
The home buying journey should be enjoyable. Don’t let the fear of a home inspection get the best of you. Though it costs money, anything can be fixed. It’s far more important to learn as much as you can about a home before finalizing a home loan and signing a purchase contract. Keep a rational mind and know that if the to-do list is too long for your standards, it’s okay to keep shopping around for a better fit. Only you can decide what’s worth your time and money before calling a property your dream home.