From the neighborhood atmosphere to the amount of natural light, you’ll leave no stone unturned when searching for a new home. However, without scheduling a professional home inspection, there’s no way of knowing whether you’re making a sound investment. To rule out any obstacles or hazards, consider the following list before moving forward with your real estate transaction.

3 Reasons to Schedule a Home Inspection

1. Ensuring Your Safety

Through the home inspection process, the inspector can root out hazardous issues such as radon or carbon monoxide gas leaks. Since exposure to these gasses can have major health consequences, you’ll want to know for sure that your potential new home is free of them.

They can also look for mold growth, which can result in respiratory issues for people with allergies and asthma. Long-term exposure to mold hidden in walls, ceilings, and floors can result in depression and memory loss. A home inspection may also reveal toxic lead paint or asbestos, which can lead to cancer.

2. Revealing Illegal Issues

Even if your prospective house is deemed safe to move into, it may not leave you free of legal liabilities. For example, if the previous owner added a new room, converted the garage, or finished the basement without approval from the municipality, you may be held responsible as the new owner. A home inspector will ensure the additions and improvements are up to code, so you’re not left to sort out the issues.

3. Offering Leverage

In some cases, issues discovered during a home inspection may not be deal-breakers in your eyes. Still, you can use the uncovered information to negotiate with the seller. For example, if the electrical wiring in the home needs to be updated, you can get an estimate from a professional electrician for the work. Then, you can either ask the seller to pay for the repairs before moving forward or to subtract that expense from the home’s price point.

If you’re interested in a new home, don’t proceed with the real estate transaction until you’ve spoken with Christine Bernardini of Bernardini Law P.C. This North Andover, MA, lawyer works hard to ensure her clients are getting an excellent deal, and that they’ve made sure no hazards or liabilities will affect the closing. To learn more about her business, visit her website. Call (978) 794-5525 to set up a consultation and discuss your real estate transaction.