Home Inspections

Since the purchase of a home is typically the largest financial investment that a family makes, buyers traditionally ask that the purchase of a property be contingent on a satisfactory home inspection.

The purchase contract on your home will probably be contingent on the buyers arranging and paying for certain structural and environmental tests to be satisfactorily completed. A professional inspection will uncover defects due to deficiencies in construction, deterioration due to aging and lack of proper maintenance.

The most frequently requested tests are:

After the tests are completed, the buyers will respond to you in writing that there are certain items they want repaired/replaced/removed. The request is accompanied by a copy from the inspector's report indicating what the problem source is. If the problem is something that affects the structure or integrity of the property, you will probably be advised to address it ... otherwise it will have to be disclosed to any subsequent buyer.

If you, the homeowner, suspect that there is a deficiency that will arise from the inspections, you might want to remedy it prior to receiving a contract on your property. Many buyers will also ask that you have your septic tank pumped ... so you might also want to do this prior to receiving a contract.

You and your agent can decide the best way to respond to a buyer's request for any repairs.

Additional Information for the Seller

Marketing Plan - Selling Process - Overpricing - First Impressions

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