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When buyers purchase homes, they have a right to learn as much as they can about the property they’re purchasing. It’s usually not practical to find out everything, though. How much should a buyer spend on home inspections?
Types of home inspections
There are many kinds of inspections, and most of them cost money. Buyers usually want an independent, third-party inspection that tells them about the condition of the house or condo they’re purchasing. I always encourage buyers to pay for this, because it can reveal important information that cannot be detected simply by walking through the home — electrical and plumbing problems, inadequate roof trusses that could cause the roof to collapse under heavy snow, and carbon monoxide fumes due to improper duct work are just a few examples.
Septic and sewer inspections can save future homeowners thousands of dollars if a hidden problem exists. Ask me about the different types of inspections that are available, because each reveals different types of information that you may need to know!
Other inspections may be called for, too. If mold is present, for example, your family’s health could be at stake. A mold inspection can identify how bad the problem is and give a buyer tools for negotiating with the seller. However, a buyer may want to skip this inspection if there is no reason to believe mold growth exists.
Pest inspections can reveal the presence of mice or unwanted insects.
Mandatory home inspections
Some home inspections may be required. Appraisals inspect market value, for instance, and a lender will certainly require one. A property boundary survey could also be required in some instances.
Inessential home inspections
And then there are home inspections that are probably not worth the cost at all. I’ve heard of homeowners elsewhere having inspections to check for electromagnetic fields, but I don’t know anyone who would request an inspection for that in our homes. (At least, I don’t know anyone yet!)
Buyers may be able to negotiate to have the seller pay for repairs, or get out of a contract if the problem is simply too big to fix. I have seen inspections that saved much more than the buyer spent for the inspector, so this one is probably too important to skip!
When you’re ready to buy a home, call me if you have questions about what types of inspections you should order. I’ll be happy to help you figure out which ones are worth paying for, and which ones you can safely skip.
Would you like a stress-free real estate experience? If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell in the next few months, call me today at 403-605-6440 or email me at bradwillson@remax.net and I’ll put you and your needs first.
About Brad Willson
Brad Willson has been making home buying, selling and investing in the Calgary area smooth and stress-free for nearly a decade. He is an awardee in the Calgary Real Estate Board Million Dollar Club, a member of the RE/MAX 100% Club and a recipient of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame Award, and is one of the few Certified Condominium Specialists in the Calgary area. Brad is as devoted to his clients as he is to his wife and two children who are now young adults.
