1. How long does a home inspection take?

2. Should a seller have a home inspection?

3. What if the report reveals problems?

4. Should I attend the inspection?

5. What should I look for in choosing an inspector?

6. What if I am buying a foreclosure?

7. What if I am buying a home at an auction?

1. How long does a home inspection take?

A thorough home inspection usually takes 2.5 - 4 hours, depending on the size of the structure, number of findings, pool/spa inspection, crawl space, etc. A typical 2000 sq.ft. home on a slab w/ no pool or spa will take 3 hours. Be careful of inspectors who take one hour to do an inspection.

Back to top

Pre-listing inspections can help eliminate surprises that may be discovered during the buyers inspection. Those surprises can slow down the close of the sale, reduce your profits or jeopardize the transaction altogether. If you know up front about the conditions the buyer's inspector may find, you can address those items prior to listing. Click here to see the...                          Top 10 Reasons to Do A Pre-Listing Inspection

Back to top

This does not necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the property, only that you will know in advance what type of repairs to anticipate. The seller may be willing to make repairs because of problems discovered by the inspector. The inspector will not tell you what to fix. That's between you and your agent. 

Back to top

It is not necessary for you to be present during the inspection, but it is a good idea. By following the inspector through the inspection process, observing and asking questions, you will learn about your new home and get some tips on general maintenance. If time doesn't allow for you to be present for the entire inspection, most buyers will opt to come at the end of the inspection for the verbal consultation. The inspector will go over the entire inspection with you, at which time you may ask questions and look at any items of interest. We're here for you and will not leave until all your questions are answered.

Back to top

Your home inspector should have general knowledge of building skills but they must also be a good detective.  General contractors are usually excellent builders but may not be the best detectives.  For that reason your inspector should have formal training in the inspection field. Formal training provides inspectors a background in inspection and detection techniques, report writing, and presentation skills.  For that reason, inspectors who have formal training in the inspection field are usually better inspectors. Your inspector should also be a member of a recognized inspection organization, like CREIA. Read more about CREIA......

Back to top

Buying a foreclosure should not dissuade you in obtaining a home inspection. The usual lack of any type of disclosure from the bank or previous owner means that this is the most important time to get a home inspection. Banks may or may not negotiate the purchase price based on the report findings, but at least you will know what issues there are before you purchase the home.

Back to top

Buying a home at an auction may allow you to purchase a home at a great price, but most buyers are not aware of any possible issues that an experienced home inspector can detect. Auctioned homes are sometimes bank owned and lack any disclosures from the previous owner. Usually, homes which are auctioned off have viewing periods before the auction. After you have decided which home you are interested in, make an appointment to have a home inspection performed during the times the home is available for inspection. Most homes are open for a 6-8 hour period prior to the auction. Check with the auction company for available times. Even after you have purchased the home, a home inspection is a great way to identify safety concerns, or items which are in need of repair and maintenance.

Back to top

© 2007 Home Inspection Plus, Inc