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2024

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2024

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long does a home inspection take?

    The average home inspection takes two to four hours, or about an hour and a half for condos. Inspection time varies depending on home size, inspector experience, and thoroughness. After the inspection, it can take 24 to 48 hours to receive the inspector's report.

  • What is a four-point home inspection?

    A four-point inspection checks a home's plumbing, roofing, electrical wiring, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) to ensure they meet current safety standards. It’s often performed for homes in areas prone to inclement weather events, such as flooding and tornadoes, and older houses. A four-point inspection is sometimes required to get homeowner's insurance.

  • How much does a home inspection cost?

    A home inspection costs between $300 and $1,000, depending on the home's size, property location, and scope of the inspection. Prices vary by inspector, so it's best to get several quotes before committing to one.

  • Who pays for home inspection?

    It's typically the buyer's responsibility to pay for a home inspection, although the seller may cover the cost sometimes. Sellers can also choose to pay for a pre-listing inspection to uncover problems that might arise during a buyer's inspection. This gives them the chance to make necessary repairs before putting the home on the market.

  • What to look for in a home inspection?

    Your home inspector should check for:

    • Structural integrity of walls and floors
    • Plumbing issues, including signs of water damage
    • Faulty or outdated electrical wiring
    • Roof and siding damage
    • Gutter drainage
    • Problems with windows and doors
    • HVAC functionality
    • Signs of pest infestation
    • Condition of major appliances, if included with the sale
    • Condition of deck and porch

  • What fixes are mandatory after a home inspection?

    If an inspection reveals severe problems, many lenders won't agree to finance the home purchase until they are fixed. This can include building code violations, structural concerns, mold, water damage, fire hazards, and other issues that can affect the buyer's health and safety.

  • When to walk away after home inspection?

    Home inspections may uncover serious hidden concerns, such as mold in the walls or the need for new electrical wiring, that can cost thousands of dollars to fix. If the seller is unwilling to pay for the repairs, it may be time to consider walking away from the deal. Unpermitted work (work done on the home without a permit) can be a dangerous safety hazard, so this is another reason to back out of the sale.

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