If the offer on your first house has been accepted, you may think the seller and the Realtor have told you everything you need to know about the history and condition of the property you are buying. Some Georgians are surprised to learn a home inspection is necessary in order for you to get approval for and finalize a mortgage. Not all real estate transactions require an inspector's report, but many lenders consider it an important part of the loan process. There are a lot of reasons why home inspections in Georgia are in the best interest of prospective purchasers.
Since you don't own the property yet, it may seem as though the seller should bear the cost of any house check. Unfortunately, it is the responsibility of the buyer to get this job done, and it should be done as soon as possible after the contract signing. It may take a week or so to get someone out to inspect the house, and the contract will specify a deadline for filing any objections with regard to repairs. A good inspector will be able to point out any potential problems that might otherwise be overlooked until it is too late.
When you choose an inspector, you should make certain the person is certified to do the work. The report of someone without certification may not be accepted by the lender. Your Realtor can probably recommend someone experienced and qualified to handle the job if you don't know a professional inspector yourself.
Inspectors will take a good look at your basement, if you have one, checking for foundation problems and water issues. They will check wiring and plumbing to make sure these systems are up to code and don't pose potential problems. Floors, walls, windows, and the attic will be inspected as well. Inspectors do not check septic systems, chimneys, or any additional structures that might be on the property you are purchasing.
It's a good idea to accompany the inspector when he or she is going over your house. If there is a serious defect, you will be able to talk about what it will take to repair or replace it right then. Inspectors are not contractors however. They may give you their opinion of what a problem will cost to correct, but they will not give you an estimate.
Your inspector will file a formal report after visiting the property you are buying. You need to have a copy of it and clearly understand what it says. Termites are an issue in this region of the country, and you will have to get another inspector out to examine your house for these insects. A termite letter will be required before you can close on the property.
If your inspector uncovers expensive problems with the house, you need to send your Realtor written notification requesting an adjustment in the purchase price. If you can't come to an agreement with the seller, you might consider walking away from the deal.
There are a lot of details to attend to when it comes to buying a house. Getting it inspected is important and should be done sooner rather than later.
Since you don't own the property yet, it may seem as though the seller should bear the cost of any house check. Unfortunately, it is the responsibility of the buyer to get this job done, and it should be done as soon as possible after the contract signing. It may take a week or so to get someone out to inspect the house, and the contract will specify a deadline for filing any objections with regard to repairs. A good inspector will be able to point out any potential problems that might otherwise be overlooked until it is too late.
When you choose an inspector, you should make certain the person is certified to do the work. The report of someone without certification may not be accepted by the lender. Your Realtor can probably recommend someone experienced and qualified to handle the job if you don't know a professional inspector yourself.
Inspectors will take a good look at your basement, if you have one, checking for foundation problems and water issues. They will check wiring and plumbing to make sure these systems are up to code and don't pose potential problems. Floors, walls, windows, and the attic will be inspected as well. Inspectors do not check septic systems, chimneys, or any additional structures that might be on the property you are purchasing.
It's a good idea to accompany the inspector when he or she is going over your house. If there is a serious defect, you will be able to talk about what it will take to repair or replace it right then. Inspectors are not contractors however. They may give you their opinion of what a problem will cost to correct, but they will not give you an estimate.
Your inspector will file a formal report after visiting the property you are buying. You need to have a copy of it and clearly understand what it says. Termites are an issue in this region of the country, and you will have to get another inspector out to examine your house for these insects. A termite letter will be required before you can close on the property.
If your inspector uncovers expensive problems with the house, you need to send your Realtor written notification requesting an adjustment in the purchase price. If you can't come to an agreement with the seller, you might consider walking away from the deal.
There are a lot of details to attend to when it comes to buying a house. Getting it inspected is important and should be done sooner rather than later.
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Get a list of important things to consider before selecting a home inspector and more information about a reliable company that specializes in home inspections in Georgia at http://www.mickeyellishomeinspections.com/index.html now.
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