Whether you’re buying or selling a home in Albuquerque, a home inspection is going to be an important part of the process. The home inspection will assess the condition of the home, identifying problems that can give buyers important information about what will need to be repaired when they buy the home.
If you’re getting a home inspection, what are some mistakes you can avoid?
1. Not researching the inspector
Many buyers and sellers simply hire the first inspector that’s recommended to them without doing any research. The thing to remember is that the inspection is only as good as the home inspector.
Some questions to as a home inspector are:
- How long have you been in business?
- How many home inspections have you done?
- What are your qualifications, certifications and training?
- What was your job before you were a home inspector? (Preferably, you want someone who was a contractor or builder.)
Your home inspector should also be current and has received ongoing education. They should also be able to explain the home’s strengths and weaknesses so that you can make the right decisions when buying the home.
2. Not attending the inspection
It’s not required to be there for the inspection, but it’s a great way to understand any problems that are found. Sure you can read the report. But seeing the issue with your own eyes is much more helpful. The inspection may take a few hours, but it’s well worth the time, as you’ll get a better idea of how much you’ll need to spend on repairs.
3. Not getting a presale inspection
If you’re the seller, don’t leave the inspection to the buyer. If the buyer’s inspection reveals repairs that are needed to make the sale, you won’t have as much time to make the needed repairs. But if you have your home inspected before you put it on the market, you’ll have more time and will have more control over the costs. And make sure to get your home inspected long before you try to sell it.
A good home inspection is crucial to buying a home, so make sure you find the best inspector you can.