How much does a home inspection cost?
The typical
inspection fee for a single family home may
vary depending on the size of the house, certain features of the house, its age,
location and possible additional services. We are always competitive within the
marketplace and are inclined to inform our potential clients that cost should
not be a factor when deciding whether or not to have a home inspection.
Knowledge gained from the inspection and report are well worth the cost, and the
cheapest inspector is not necessarily a bargain. An inspector's training,
qualifications, education, expertise and professional affiliations should be the
most decisive factors. We usually tell our clients to expect to pay
approximately ten cents per square foot of the home itself.
What will the home inspection cover?
A thorough Home Inspection covers everything from roof to
the foundation. Your inspector is very thorough! Our home inspection check list
covers:
- Structural Systems - Foundation, Grading and
Drainage, Roof Covering, Attic, Interior and Exterior Walls, Ceilings and
Floors, Doors, Windows, Fireplace and Chimney, and Porches
- Electrical System - Service Entrance and Panels,
Branch Circuits-Connected devices and Fixtures
- Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning -
Heating equipment, Cooling equipment, Ducts and Vents
- Plumbing System - Water Supply and Fixtures,
Drains, Wastes, Vents, Water Heating Equipment, Hydro-Message Equipment
- Appliances - Dishwasher, Food Waste Disposal,
Range Hood, Ranges/Ovens/Cooktops, Trash Compactor, Bathroom Exhaust Fan,
Whole House Vacuum System, Garage Door Operators, Door Bell, Dryer Vent and
other built-in appliances
- Optional Systems - Lawn Sprinklers, Swimming
Pool/Spa and Gas Line Connections
Do I have to be present at the inspection ?
C ommunication with
the inspector is important in order to fully understand the inspection report
and its findings. Although it is not necessary, we encourage you to be present
at the inspection, typically towards the end (2-4 hrs.). This will allow the
inspector time to profile the home. At that time you can ask questions as you
learn the condition of the home, its systems, how they work and routine
maintenance. You may also find the final report easier to read and understand
having reviewed the property from the inspector's point of view.
NOTE:
We are an associate member of the Houston
Association of Realtors and maintain a SUPRA key ( lockbox access ) for
scheduling convenience. Please inform your realtor that their presence is not
required but of course they are welcome. Some realtors will really appreciate
this!
What do I do if the report reveals problems?
I t is
important to know that no house is perfect. If an inspection report reveals
problems, it does not necessarily mean you should not buy the house, only that
you will know ahead of time what to expect. This information will be very
important to you if you wish to avoid costly major repairs. If major problems
are detected, it may cause the seller to adjust the selling price or contract
conditions. If a home is found to be in good shape, you can complete the
purchase with your eyes wide open as to the condition of the property, its
systems, components and equipment. The written report will also have taught
you many things about your new home and you will want to keep it for future
reference.
When do I call for an inspection?
Generally, the home inspector is called right
after a contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign,
make sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract making your
commitment dependant upon the findings of a professional home inspection. Both
buyer and seller should specify terms to which they are obligated.
Why should I use America's Home Professionals?
The reason is simple. Knowledge and
expertise gained from education, training and experience. All inspections will
be conducted by a professional home inspector (licensed by The Texas Real Estate
Commission) from an impartial, objective point of view with quality and
integrity. We are not appraisers and do not determine market value nor are we a
municipal inspection company that verifies code compliance. Even the most
seasoned real estate agent or informed home owner cannot match the
qualifications of a professional home inspector that has conducted many home
inspections throughout their career.
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