Yes! A house appraisal is an independent evaluation of the current market value of a house or property. In general, the purpose of an appraisal is to set the current value of a house so that a lender may determine how much it can loan to the buyer. The appraiser looks at similar properties in the area and the prices at which they were sold to set the value of the house.

No. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence about the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. From the inspection, you will have learned many things about your new home and will want to keep that information for future reference. In these cases, you should have peace of mind knowing that you are making the right decision.

No house is perfect. When the inspector identifies problems, it does not indicate you should not buy the house. His findings serve to educate you in advance of the purchase about the condition of the property. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are discovered during an inspection. If your budget is tight, or if you do not want to be involved in future repair work, this [...]

While it is not necessary for you to be present, it is always recommended that you be there. This allows you to follow the inspector, ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain them. After you have seen the property with the inspector, you will find the report easier to understand. More often than not, you will learn something about your new [...]

Before you sign the contract or purchase agreement, make your purchase obligation contingent upon findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated. Contact a home inspector immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Home inspectors are aware of the time constraints involved in purchase agreements and most are available to conduct the required inspection within a few [...]

The report will include the findings of what condition the major systems of the home were found in. Reports themselves can vary. You will receive an electronic copy of your report, including a home maintenance manual, usually by the end of business that same day. The report is organized with an inspection checklist, a summary report of deficiencies found, and perhaps digital pictures to support the recommendations if necessary. Feel free to check [...]

Any professional inspection firm will have an agreement for you to read and sign. This agreement will spell out the company's capabilities and their limitations, Do not assume you know what the inspector can do for you based on what you hope or want him to do for you. There are limitations. Inspectors are there to limit your risk in the purchase of a home. However, they cannot eliminate that risk. Keep in [...]

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies compliance to local codes and standards. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house. A home inspection describes the physical condition of a property and indicates what may need repair or replacement. The information provided is to allow the potential buyer [...]

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. A professional home inspector has the experience, depth of knowledge and training to make an unbiased and informed report of the condition of a property. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, property installation, and maintenance. An inspector understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function together as well as how [...]

Inspection fees for a standard home inspection vary by size and features of the property as well as the age of the home. Additionally, services such as well and septic, lead, pest inspections, mold inspections and radon testing may be warranted depending upon the individual property. Feel free to call us at 847.926.HOME (4663) for an estimate.