When an inspection costs as little as $300-$500, wouldn’t you rather spend that than thousands (or tens of thousands)?

That’s the question. The answer should be: invest in an inspection. “You need unbiased documentation of the home’s condition,” says Eric Swiatek, owner of Green Leaf Inspections. Special inspections like radon, HVAC or septic may add to the cost. In the end, the cost of the inspection is certainly worth the investment.

“It’s about what’s wearing out, what’s in the attic, and what’s on the roof that matters,” states Swiatek. Inspectors discover problems, expensive or not, that you need to know. When finalizing your house purchase, an inspection is a way to back out if the house isn’t up to snuff. It’s also a negotiation tool for what needs repair. It creates options for the buyer: offer a lower price for the home, have the seller pay for the repairs, or negotiate who pays for what.

Bidding Wars

Don’t let yourself get caught up in bidding wars because others are willing to waive the inspection. Remember, realtors aim to close the deal. Be your own advocate. This is a huge investment – often the largest investment you’ll ever make – so take it seriously. It could cost far more than the purchase price if you waive the inspection.

Leaks and Safety

Home inspectors look at structural problems, e.g. foundations. They also inspect roofs for age, maintenance, and areas of concern. A new roof may cost $10-15,000. Again, you may negotiate this repair.

Another area is safety of the home. The electrical system and radon levels are key to safety to reduce the risk of fire hazards and to alleviate health issues which radon is known to cause.

Maintenance

Homes age, and as they do, elements wear down and break. An inspector will notify you of pending maintenance issues and how long an item may last or cost to replace. Furnaces, hot water tanks, etc. These are important issues for your household budget and should be considered when purchasing a home.

Most Important – Peace of Mind

How do you place a value on peace of mind? Knowing all you need to know when placing a bid provides relief of the unknowns. Making an informed decision is priceless. So, arrange for the inspection today.

Agents, do you want happy buyers and sellers? If so, the first step is a home inspection. An inspection is an avenue for all parties involved to achieve peace of mind. “How?” you may ask.

A primary role of an agent is to negotiate on behalf of his or her client. To negotiate properly, agents must understand the condition of the home. Many terms of the final agreement will be based on what’s discovered during an inspection. Moreover, agents need to be present during an inspection to be fully aware of what’s at stake in a house. Without an inspection — particularly without being present — you can’t be fully aware or represent your client’s best interests. You need to be engaged in the inspection process.

Leave Facts to the Inspector

Lawsuits arise from an agent either commenting on the condition or not disclosing something about the condition of the house. Even one comment on the condition of the home may lead buyers wondering why you didn’t notify them of something else. And buyers have sued for non-disclosure. The safest way to protect yourself and your client is to promote an inspection and let the inspector do the talking.

A home inspector is an unbiased third party who is bound by certification to disclose any items in need of repair or replacement. Inspections can uncover costly repairs, safety issues or a well-built home. By observing only and letting the inspector explain to the seller or buyer what is discovered, you have removed yourself from any implication or discomfort.

Removing Fear

Agents sometimes fear what may arise during an inspection. Post-inspection an educated buyer or seller becomes well prepared to make decisions, and this benefits the agent. Should the seller perform a pre-sale inspection, the report is a great tool for the buyer’s ease of mind. Buyers ordering a home inspection can alleviate unknowns and make an informed decision whether to place an offer. The report is also a great tool for negotiating items needing repair. The answer to unknowns is knowledge, and communication is key. Agents then have a greater chance for a smooth transition from sale to closing.

Eric Swiatek, ASHI, from Green Leaf Home Inspections, spends time to educate your buyers about the condition of the home, explains what type of maintenance is expected, provides knowledge of the systems, and answers any questions. Most inspections can be scheduled within a few days. Eric respects that everyone’s time is valuable and schedules the inspection for the most efficiency.

His knowledge and experience give buyers and sellers confidence in their purchase decision — confidence that will help agents get more referrals. A great experience for the buyer or seller benefits the agent, too.

Peace of Mind

Encourage buyers to obtain an inspection for their protection. Encourage sellers to provide a pre-inspection to ease the minds of buyers and agents. It’s a win all around.