activecultures Whether you’re buying or selling a home, a thorough home inspection can help you avoid unexpected repair costs and protect your investment. It can also reveal hidden problems and give you a detailed picture of the house’s condition.
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The home inspection process may seem complicated, but it’s not difficult to navigate if you have the right resources and know what to expect. To make the process easier, MoneyGeek spoke with experts from the home inspection industry to share their tips for choosing an inspector and avoiding common mistakes.
Before you hire a home inspector, check their credentials. The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) offer lists of certified home inspectors and search tools to find a local member in your area. Check this out : homeinspectioninsider.com
Be sure to ask for a sample inspection report from each inspector you meet with. This will help you determine how detailed their observations are and how well they communicate the issues they find.
Choose a company that’s available to schedule at short notice. This is especially important if you are buying a home that has a tight closing window.
Ask about additional services that can be included in the inspection fee. These services are designed to provide more in-depth information on the home, such as its heating system or water heater.
Keep your home clean and organized for the inspection, which will help you focus on areas that need attention. An overly dirty or messy home might turn off potential buyers.