Did you know the latest stats reveal the median sales price for an existing home in the U.S. is about $350,000 dollars? A home is expensive and likely the biggest asset you’ll own. You want to make sure you’re getting every penny’s worth before you sign on the dotted line.
How can you make sure your Cottage Grove home meets your standards? Home inspections are one way of making sure the home you want doesn’t have any hidden surprises.
Keep reading for vital information about why you should get a home inspection before buying a home.
Home Inspection Standards
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) has a standard of practice for all home inspectors to follow during an inspection. The standard divides the home into systems and reveals how each inspection should include all components of each system.
The inspector looks at accessible, observable, installed systems. The inspector then offers a written report detailing any defects, deficiencies, or unsafe systems. Inspectors also let you know if a system, such as an HVAC system or a roof is nearing the end of its useful life.
An inspection and appraisal are important pieces on your real estate checklist. Always have an expert guide you through the homebuying process.
What Are the Systems?
Here’s a list of the main systems the inspector checks. Keep in mind that most inspectors won’t enter a crawlspace that has less than 24 inches of vertical space.
Structural System and Home Exterior
The inspector looks at the structural systems, including the foundation structure. He also inspects the floor, wall, and ceiling structures.
This includes the exterior, including flashing, trim, and wall coverings. The inspector also looks at decks, balconies, porches, railings, stoops, and steps. This includes the soffits, fascias, and eaves as long as they’re accessible from the ground.
She’ll also make sure the surface drainage, grading, and important retaining walls are sound. The inspector checks entryways, walkways, patios, and driveways.
Roof Systems
A home inspection also includes the roof systems. He’ll check the drainage systems, materials, flashing, skylights, and chimneys. Also included are any areas of roof penetration such as from a vent-stack system.
Insulation and ventilation systems get checked for the attic. Other ventilation systems checked are in the foundation, kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room. Clothes dryer exhaust systems are also inspected.
Plumbing, Electrical Systems, and HVAC
All plumbing and electrical systems are also inspected. This includes fixtures and faucets, drains, waste, and plumbing vent systems. The inspector makes sure all sinks, toilets, and other plumbing are in good working order.
The inspector looks for overcurrent protection devices and ground fault circuit interrupters in the electrical systems. The inspector doesn’t typically inspect any wiring systems that aren’t part of the primary electrical system.
The heating and air-conditioning systems also get inspected.
The Importance of Home Inspections
Home inspections are crucial when buying Cottage Grove real estate. Always get a home inspection so you know what condition the home is in before you commit.
Need help buying property in Cottage Grove? We know the area and the market and can help you get the best deal for your money. Contact us today if you need help finding your next dream home!
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