Is A Home Inspection Really Important?
You may think that finding the right home to buy is the most important step in your home buying process. However, conducting a thorough home inspection is needed to ensure you’re investing in the best property. Some potential home buyers think this step is unnecessary and would rather spend their cash on the house itself!
However, conducting a thorough home inspection can save you money and the stress of future repairs. If you’re not sure how we’ve got answers. We’ll explain why you should prioritize a home inspection before closing and how this step helps maximize your investment dollars.
Why Should You Prioritize a Home Inspection?
You may be considering skipping your home inspection since lenders don’t require it for most mortgage loans. However, getting the property inspected before closing can stop you from making a bad investment.
At a national level, home inspections cost on average between $278 and $390. You may think not hiring a home inspector is a great way to save on closing costs. However, these inspections will tell you details about the property’s condition.
If you choose to conduct a home inspection, a Texas licensed home inspector will examine the structure, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, foundation, roof, walls, and even windows of your next home. After completing the inspection, you’ll receive a State of Texas formal report detailing the condition of the property.
Usually, buyers conduct the home inspection after placing an offer. If you work with a licensed real estate agent or property management realty group, the specialist will make sure your offer includes a home inspection as a contingency. This condition will allow you to back out of buying the property based on the results of a home inspection.
Are you still thinking twice about inspecting a property before buying it?
Top 4 reasons to prioritize a home inspection before buying a property
A home inspection can help you:
1. Spot Major Structural Problems
Structural problems are major headaches and red flags when buying your next home or investment. A home inspector will examine the exterior walls, garage, grading, and roof to spot these issues.
They will look for signs such as cracks or settling which point to foundation damage. The inspector will also check the grading slopes and ensure the home hasn’t suffered water damage. These issues can stop you from making the wrong investment.
2. Learn About Existing Safety Hazards and Illegal Property Modifications
Illegal or un-permitted property modifications can affect financing, taxing, use, and overall property value. Modifying rooms, basements, and garages that don’t meet the local code or without the necessary permits are some examples of these illegal additions.
Conducting a home inspection can protect you and your family from existing safety hazards. A home inspector may test properties for the presence of radon, asbestos, carbon, mold, among other common hazards.
3. Estimate Potential Costs
During a home inspection, the expert can estimate the age of major installations such as plumbing, heating, cooling, and other systems. They can also report the condition of these systems.
Learning these details will allow you to estimate potential future costs such as replacing your water heater, HVAC, and other major equipment. Forecasting these costs will help you budget accordingly or make any necessary repairs before moving in.
4. Learn How to Maintain Your Next Home
While you may have fallen in love with a property for its location, dimensions, or curb appeal, homeownership costs can put a dent in your finances. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time or seasoned homeowner, every home is different and requires certain care.
A home inspection can provide insight into what maintenance costs you should expect. Your inspector can provide tips and advice on how to keep your property in top shape. By maintaining your property, you’ll protect your investment and skyrocket your home’s value.
The Bottom Line On Why You Should Get A Home Inspection
When it comes to home inspections, the benefits outweigh the costs. It may be tempting to skip inspecting your next home, but it can save you money and headaches in the long run. Keep in mind that you should hire a state licensed inspector to take a look at the property.
A licensed home inspector is required by the state to follow the minimum Standards of Practice when inspecting a home. Hiring the right professional will ensure you receive a detailed report following the regulations in the State of Texas. You should consult your local realtor or Collin County property management company to connect with top licensed home inspectors in your area.
Before you go house hunting, it’s vital to cover your bases and learn everything you can about the home buying process. A North Texas Property Management Company such as TRGhouses can guide you every step of the way.
Call TRGhouses For North Texas Property Management
Want to learn more about your options? Contact us today to find out how we can help you with your next investment or the purchase of your dream home.