Proactive inspections help prevent transaction issues

A full home inspection has become an industry standard when a buyer has made an offer on a house. But, can a homeowner be proactive and hire an inspector before the home is listed to help identify potential issues and /or problems. The answer, though perhaps obvious, is of course. But, do many homeowners elect to be proactive. In most cases, they do not.

A suggestion might be to hire a professional to perform some or all of the following particular home inspections that should help reveal potential problems before they can prevent a smooth home sale transaction. Although pest inspections are the traditional minimum standard, there are a multitude of other inspections homeowners can have undertaken prior to listing a property for sale.

1. Pests, termites and other critters

Some pests like mice are the most visible critters you will see, or at least their droppings give clear clues of their potential whereabouts. Ants are obvious when in mass. Termites are far more difficult to detect as they hide inside walls and floors. A professional pest inspector will go under the house and get into the crawl space and find evidence if the legendary “wood destroyers” are posing a problem. While under the house, pests inspectors can also search for dry rot, which most often leads to wood deterioration.

2. Foundation

Not only are pests a potential problematic issue, if you happen to be the owner of an older home built on a sub floor then beware. Of course some structural settling is expected, but when there are large cracks in the foundation you best be proactive. A foundation specialist can be hired to look for tell-tale signs and offer advice about repairs. Legitimate structural foundation issues are a huge red flag to buyers.

3. Electrical wiring

Another difficult to detect potential issue is any electrical wiring problems. By the very nature, electrical wires are inside walls, and as such, inherently difficult to visibly evaluate. Though seldom an issue in newer homes, older homes may be a potential fire waiting to happen. A trusted electrician who is familiar with a home’s neighborhood and building nuances should know what common problems to look for.

4. Chimneys and flues

The vast majority of buyers expect to see a fireplace in the house. With the fireplace comes the obvious need for a chimney. Although a visible inspection in this regard is not the most difficult to undertake, do not forget to have the internal parts of the fireplace inspected, namely the flue. A qualified and certified chimney inspector can make sure the flue liners are intact, the inside bricks are sound, and that smoke is exiting the chimney properly.

5. The all important roof

Repairing a roof is one of the largest expenses a homeowner ever has to finance. Buyers will want assurances that the existing roof is sound and able to hold up to the elements, especially when the vast majority of transactions occur in drier and milder weather. Hire a reputable professional who specializes in the home’s roof material (tile, composite, etc…) to give an honest and objective opinion whether or not damage exists. If so, get at least three estimates on the cost of required repairs – and importantly, make the buyer aware of the situation and the financial implications. Do not try to hide the obvious.