It is essential to understand how home value is assessed is when buying or selling a property. Every aspect of a home contributes to its market value, as well as its appeal. There can be many unseen issues, which is why you’ll want to schedule a home inspection. This professional service is the best way to understand the true state and value of a property.

What You Should Know About Home Inspections

What happens during an inspection?

A home inspection is a visual examination of all a home’s features. During the appointment, a skilled home inspector will examine the plumbing system, HVAC, electrical wiring, roof, foundation, and structure for signs of damage. They will then deliver a detailed report of all these features so you can have an idea of what these systems are worth and what repairs may be needed.

Often, home inspections won’t include cosmetic assessments, outbuilding inspections, or checks for code and bylaw adherence.

Do I need one?

Having an inspection done is smart for both homebuyers and sellers. If you’re selling a home, you want to be confident that you’re accurately pricing it. If you’re buying, you want to ensure you aren’t inheriting underlying issues, such as a cracked foundation or leaky plumbing system.

As a seller, not disclosing existing issues could void a contract that allows the buyer to back out. As a buyer, you may find yourself paying full price for a home that will require a new roof or costly structural repairs only months after purchasing.

Is it the same as a home appraisal?

A home appraisal determines the value of the home based on fair market research. They’ll compare the number of bedrooms, square footage, and the condition of core systems to the value of similar properties that have sold or are on the market.

They’ll add all of this together to provide a value range so you can truly gauge what the home is worth. Many buyers and sellers choose to schedule a home inspection and appraisal to make the most informed decision.

What happens if problems are found?

If an issue, like a failing septic system, is discovered, buyers and sellers can negotiate to either deduct the cost of a replacement from the sale price or to have the seller handle repairs before selling. Buyers may also decide that the problems, such as a failed electrical system or extensive mold growth, aren’t worth the trouble and will move on.

Ready to schedule a home inspection? Twin City Home Inspections Inc. of Texarkana, TX, has served customers since 2007, focusing on both commercial buildings and house inspections. They proudly provide same-day results, so call (903) 276-9566 to schedule a consultation. You can learn more about these certified home inspectors on their website.